Print

Easy One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe for Busy Weeknight Dinners

one-pan ground beef and rice skillet - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy one-pan ground beef and rice skillet that is perfect for busy weeknights. This hearty and flavorful dish uses simple pantry staples and cooks in about 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
  • 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Warm for about 2 minutes until shimmering.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to a minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.
  4. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the spices toast slightly for about 1 minute.
  5. Add the tomato paste and stir to coat the meat and onions evenly. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  6. Pour in the rinsed rice and beef broth, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits.
  7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. After 20 minutes, remove the lid and check if the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. If not done, cover and cook a few more minutes. Once ready, fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  9. Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for garnish and serve hot straight from the skillet.

Notes

If rice cooks faster than liquid absorbs, add a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking or burning. Stir tomato paste into beef before adding liquids to avoid clumps. Let skillet rest covered off heat for 5 minutes before serving to let flavors settle. Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and cook rice evenly. Rinse rice before cooking to prevent mushiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, ground beef, rice skillet, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, simple ingredients, family dinner

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/easy-one-pan-ground-beef-and-rice-skillet-recipe-for-busy-weeknight-dinners/