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Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet (30 Minutes)

Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a complete meal cooked in one pan — tender rice, seasoned ground beef, and colorful vegetables all simmered together in a savory tomato and broth-based sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450 g lean ground beef
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups beef broth or substitute chicken/vegetable broth
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan (with lid)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring and breaking up beef)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Can opener (for diced tomatoes)

Method
 

  1. Brown the Bee. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Continue cooking until no pink remains and the beef is browned evenly.
  2. Sauté the Vegetable. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Stir frequently and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. This step helps build the flavor base of your dish.
  3. Add the Seasoning. Sprinkle in the paprika and oregano, stirring to combine well. Let the spices bloom in the heat for about 30 seconds to release their full aroma.
  4. Incorporate the Rice. Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the flavorful beef mixture. This step helps the rice absorb all the seasonings before it cooks in the broth.
  5. Add Liquids and Tomatoes. Pour in the beef broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes (including the juices). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Simmer Until Tender. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer gently for 18–20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time — the trapped steam helps the rice cook evenly.
  7. Fluff and Finish. After 20 minutes, remove the lid and check the rice. It should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed. Fluff with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Optional Cheese Topping. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the hot skillet. Cover for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully over the beef and rice.
  9. Serve immediately, straight from the skillet, for that cozy, home-cooked feel.

Notes

Variations
🌮 Mexican Fiesta: Add ½ cup salsa, ½ cup black beans, and top with avocado and sour cream.
🍅 Italian Style: Stir in diced tomatoes, basil, and finish with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan.
🥢 Asian Fusion: Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
🌶️ Cajun Kick: Include sliced andouille sausage and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
🥦 Veggie Power: Toss in chopped zucchini, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrients and color.
Serving Suggestions
🥗 Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the skillet.
🍞 Bread Pairings: Try it with warm tortillas, crusty garlic bread, or buttery cornbread.
🌶️ Sauce Bar: Offer hot sauce, salsa, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for topping variety.
🍹 Drink Pairings: Pairs wonderfully with iced tea, cold beer, or a light red wine.
🍓 Light Dessert: Finish off the meal with fresh fruit or a scoop of sorbet.