This ground beef and rice recipe is just what you need. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy nights or when you want a hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time!
Why We Love This ground beef and rice
This ground beef and rice recipe is everything you need for a satisfying, one-pot meal. It’s simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or laid-back family dinners. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for when you need a meal in a hurry. No complicated steps—just easy cooking that fits into any busy schedule.
- One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup, making it a stress-free option for any night of the week. Plus, it allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Customizable: The recipe is highly adaptable. Want to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken? Go for it. Feel free to add in veggies like bell peppers or peas to suit your taste or what you have in the fridge. You can even experiment with different seasonings to give it a fresh twist.
- Family-Friendly: Whether you’re cooking for kids or a group of adults, this dish works for everyone. It’s hearty, filling, and loved by all ages, making it ideal for family meals.
- Comfort Food: There’s just something about the combination of seasoned ground beef and soft rice that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple, satisfying, and a true comfort food classic.
Ingredients
Ground Beef – Use lean ground beef for less fat. Can substitute with turkey or chicken.
Long-Grain White Rice – Gives a fluffy texture. Brown rice works too, but takes longer to cook.
Onion – Adds sweetness and flavor. Finely chop it.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor.
Bell Pepper – Adds color and sweetness. Any color works.
Diced Tomatoes – Canned, drained tomatoes for tangy flavor.
Beef Broth – Adds savory richness. Chicken or vegetable broth is fine too.
Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and depth. Can swap with chili powder.
Paprika – Adds mild smokiness. Optional but adds flavor.
Salt and Pepper – For seasoning.
Olive Oil – For sautéing. Can substitute with any cooking oil.
Instructions
This ground beef and rice recipe comes together in no time, and the steps are simple to follow. Let’s dive into the process:
Cook the rice: Follow package instructions to cook the rice and set it aside.
Sauté veggies: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chopped onion for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and bell pepper, cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Cook the beef: Push veggies aside, add ground beef, cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
Season: Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth, simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine with rice: Stir in cooked rice, cook for another 2-3 minutes to mix well.
Taste and adjust: Check seasoning, add salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.
Pro Tips
To make sure your ground beef and rice dish turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips to elevate the flavors and ensure the best results:
Use lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in the dish. It’s a healthier choice without compromising flavor. If you prefer extra richness, feel free to use regular ground beef or even ground chuck.
Don’t overcook the rice: Follow the package instructions for cooking the rice to avoid it becoming mushy. For extra fluffiness, consider rinsing the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
Add spices to taste: The cumin and paprika give this dish a warm, smoky flavor, but you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Let the flavors meld: After adding the rice, let the dish simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend together. This step helps the rice soak up the beef and tomato mixture, making each bite extra delicious.
Enhance the dish with toppings: To take this meal up a notch, top with a dollop of sour cream, freshly chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese. These simple additions add a burst of flavor and a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
Meal prep tip: This recipe makes great leftovers, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.
Variations
One of the best things about this ground beef and rice recipe is how easily it can be customized to fit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you can try to keep things interesting:
Swap the protein: Not a fan of ground beef? No problem! You can easily substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. Each option will bring its own unique flavor, but the cooking process stays the same.
Add more veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding more vegetables. Try zucchini, carrots, or corn for a little extra crunch and color. You can sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper for the best texture.
Go with brown rice: If you’re looking for a heartier, fiber-rich option, brown rice is a great substitute for white rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as it takes longer to cook.
Spicy kick: For those who like a little heat, try adding jalapeños or chili powder. A splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add the perfect amount of spice to suit your taste.
Make it cheesy: If you love cheese, add some shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese on top of the finished dish. Let it melt into the warm rice and beef for an irresistible, gooey topping.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your ground beef and rice is ready, it’s time to serve it up! This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
Fresh salad: A light and refreshing side like a garden salad or cucumber and tomato salad pairs beautifully with this hearty dish. The crisp veggies offer a cool contrast to the warm, savory beef and rice.
Garlic bread: If you’re craving something a little indulgent, serve the dish with a side of garlic bread. The rich, buttery flavor complements the spiced beef perfectly and adds a comforting touch.
Steamed vegetables: Keep it healthy with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. These veggies add a burst of color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the beef and rice.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Top your plate with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. The coolness of the topping cuts through the warmth of the dish, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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FAQs about ground beef and rice
Here are some commonly asked questions about this ground beef and rice recipe, along with helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This ground beef and rice dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a while, so it makes for great leftovers!
Can I use a different type of rice?
While white rice is most commonly used for this dish, you can definitely swap it with brown rice or wild rice for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the rice packaging for the best instructions.
How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?
To avoid mushy rice, be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the type of rice you’re using. For white rice, you’ll want to cook it until it’s tender but still firm. If you’re using brown rice, it may take longer, so be patient and check it for doneness as you go.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a little heat, you can spice things up by adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference to create the perfect balance of flavors.
ground beef and rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Start by cooking the long-grain white rice according to package instructions. Set it aside when done. If you’re using brown rice, be sure to account for the extra cooking time.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and tender.
- Cook the ground beef: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, then add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Season the mixture: Once the beef is cooked through, sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, letting the spices bloom in the hot pan for about 1 minute.
- Add the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the broth to reduce slightly.
- Combine with rice: Stir in the cooked rice, making sure it’s well incorporated with the beef mixture. Let everything cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just long enough for the rice to absorb the flavors.
- Final taste check: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika based on your preference.