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Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet: 30-Minute Easy Dinner

Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet - featured image

A reliable, one-pot comfort food dish that comes together in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights, this skillet features savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120g) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup frozen green peas (optional)
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains (about 8 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary, then add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Pour in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine and ensure the rice is submerged in the liquid.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer gently for 15-18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  6. Once the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, remove from heat. Keep covered and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
  7. Fluff with a fork before serving. Add optional peas or cheese if desired.

Notes

Do not stir the rice while it simmers to prevent a gummy texture. Use low heat to avoid burning the bottom. For a crispier texture, uncover the skillet for the last 2 minutes of cooking. If using brown rice, increase liquid and cooking time to approximately 40 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, rice skillet, one pot meal, quick dinner, weeknight dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, 30 minute meal