This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a hearty, one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy nights. The rich, savory flavors of the ground beef, paired with tender rice and sweet peas, create a comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily add other vegetables or spices to customize the dish to your liking, making it a meal that can be tailored to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to feed a crowd, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet delivers every time.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup long-grain rice
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2 cups beef broth
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 cup frozen peas
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
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Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
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Stir in the rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Cover and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in the frozen peas, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peas are heated through.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ground Beef and Rice: A Hearty and Versatile Dish
Ground beef and rice is a classic combination loved by many for its simplicity, comfort, and ability to be adapted to various tastes. This dish is a staple in many households, offering a quick, satisfying, and versatile meal that can be customized to suit any palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty dish to feed a crowd, ground beef and rice is a reliable choice that ticks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and nutrition.
A Brief History of Ground Beef and Rice
Ground beef and rice have been paired together in various culinary traditions for centuries. The combination of beef and rice is both practical and delicious, serving as a hearty base for many dishes around the world. In some cultures, this pairing is enhanced with spices, vegetables, and herbs, making it a savory, all-in-one meal.
In the United States, ground beef and rice is often prepared as a quick and economical family meal, with countless variations depending on the region and individual preferences. For example, in the South, you might find dishes like “dirty rice,” which incorporates ground beef with Cajun spices and vegetables, while in the Middle East, a similar combination might be found in dishes like pilaf, where rice and meat are cooked together with aromatic spices.
Why Ground Beef and Rice Is a Popular Choice
Ground beef and rice is a go-to meal for several reasons. First, it is affordable, making it an attractive option for families on a budget. Ground beef is a versatile protein that cooks quickly and takes on the flavors of whatever ingredients it is paired with. When combined with rice, a staple carbohydrate, it forms a complete meal that provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.
Another reason for the dish’s popularity is its flexibility. It can be easily customized to suit different dietary needs and flavor profiles. You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrients, or incorporate different spices to change the flavor entirely. The options are endless, making it a great dish to experiment with based on what ingredients you have at hand.
Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef and Rice
Ground beef and rice provide a nutritious and balanced meal when prepared thoughtfully. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth. It also provides important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, which are vital for maintaining good health.
Rice, particularly whole-grain varieties like brown rice, offers fiber, which helps regulate digestion and maintain steady blood sugar levels. While white rice is a more refined option, it can still be part of a balanced meal if paired with nutrient-rich ingredients. Adding vegetables or legumes to the dish further boosts its nutritional value, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
For those looking to cut down on fat, leaner cuts of ground beef, such as 90% lean or higher, can be used, or the dish can be made with ground turkey or chicken. This makes ground beef and rice a customizable option for various dietary preferences, from omnivores to those following a more plant-based or low-fat lifestyle.
How to Customize Ground Beef and Rice
One of the best things about ground beef and rice is how easy it is to customize. The basic recipe can be adapted in many ways to suit different tastes, cuisines, and dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations on this classic dish:
Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different spices to create a dish with bold flavors. For a Mexican twist, add cumin, chili powder, and coriander for a spiced-up version. If you’re craving something Mediterranean, season with oregano, garlic, and lemon. For a comforting homestyle meal, a sprinkle of thyme and rosemary can give the dish a heartwarming flavor.
Vegetables: Add vegetables for extra nutrition and color. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, carrots, and peas are classic choices, but you can also try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more texture and nutrients. Vegetables also add freshness and balance out the richness of the beef.
Cheese: For a creamy and indulgent twist, you can add cheese. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan adds richness and depth to the dish. For a more gourmet approach, try crumbled feta or goat cheese, which pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Alternative Grains: While rice is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other grains like quinoa, farro, or couscous. These alternatives can offer different textures and added health benefits, such as higher protein content in quinoa or the nutty flavor of farro.
Ground Beef Alternatives: While ground beef is the go-to choice for this dish, you can use other proteins to create a healthier or more unique version. Ground turkey or chicken can provide leaner options, while plant-based proteins like lentils or mushrooms are great alternatives for vegetarians or vegans.
Using Ground Beef and Rice in Meal Planning
Ground beef and rice is perfect for meal planning due to its versatility and ease of preparation. It can be cooked in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it ideal for busy families or those looking to prep meals for the week ahead.
You can portion the dish into individual servings and store it in airtight containers, ensuring you have a healthy, ready-to-eat meal for lunches or dinners throughout the week. For added convenience, ground beef and rice can also be frozen in portions for up to 3 months, allowing for easy defrosting on those days when you need a quick meal.
Ground Beef and Rice in Different Cuisines
Ground beef and rice is used in various cuisines around the world, each bringing its own unique twist to the dish. In the Middle East, for example, ground beef and rice might be cooked with fragrant spices such as cinnamon, allspice, and cumin, and served with a dollop of yogurt. In Mediterranean countries, ground beef might be paired with rice and stuffed inside vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for a delicious and hearty meal.
In the Caribbean, a similar dish known as “rice and peas” is often made with ground beef, rice, and kidney beans, flavored with coconut milk, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers for a spicy kick. The possibilities are truly endless, and you can explore different global flavors by adjusting the ingredients and spices used in this dish.
Conclusion
Ground beef and rice is an incredibly versatile and satisfying dish that works for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, a dish to feed a crowd, or a customizable meal that can be adapted to various dietary preferences, this recipe ticks all the boxes. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and potential for creative variations, it’s no wonder that ground beef and rice continues to be a favorite in kitchens worldwide.
By experimenting with different spices, vegetables, and proteins, you can elevate this dish to suit your tastes and create a meal that’s perfect for you and your family. Whether you enjoy it as is or make it your own, ground beef and rice is a meal that’s sure to satisfy and delight, time and time again.