Description
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring lean ground beef, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables simmered in savory beef broth and tomatoes, it’s a comforting combination topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for a delicious finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
Grains and Liquids
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
Seasonings and Extras
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease as needed to keep the dish lean.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine rice and liquids: Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Add cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skillet for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish warm and enjoy your comforting one-pan meal.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile and can be customized by adding vegetables like corn, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- To add heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be stirred in with the seasonings.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before eating.
