Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet

Name: Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup white rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I love making quick meals when time is tight, and this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet has become a family favorite. The best part is how effortlessly it combines ground beef with rice, vegetables, and spices in one pan, creating a flavorful dish in under 30 minutes. As a busy home cook, I appreciate how the flavors meld together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's an easy, satisfying meal that everyone loves, and it allows me to sneak in some veggies without the fuss!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:43:04.583Z

When I first tried creating this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, I wanted something that wouldn't take up my whole evening. The combination of ingredients cooked together amplifies the flavors and makes everything taste richer than if they were cooked separately. I love how the rice absorbs the savory beef broth, making every bite seasoned perfectly.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to use leftover rice; it helps cut down on cooking time and creates a nicer texture. I usually prepare a batch of rice earlier in the week just for dishes like this, so I always have it on hand. It truly transforms the dish into a hearty meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A one-pan meal that saves on cleanup time
Meat and veggies come together in a delicious harmony
Quick cooking means more time to enjoy with family

Understanding the Base Flavors

The combination of ground beef, onions, and garlic is foundational to the flavor profile of this dish. Browning the beef until it develops a rich, brown color intensifies the meat's natural flavors and creates a savory base for the rest of the ingredients. Make sure to keep the heat at medium; too high and you risk burning the garlic, which becomes bitter.

Diced tomatoes add acidity and moisture, balancing the richness of the beef. If you prefer a little more heat, consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an added depth of flavor. The acidity helps to tenderize the beef while creating a cohesive sauce that coats the rice beautifully.

Vegetable Variations and Texture

The mixed vegetables in this recipe are not just a way to sneak in nutrition; they add texture and color, making the dish visually appealing. While frozen veggies are convenient, using fresh ones like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas can elevate the freshness of the meal. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking, and add them in the last five minutes to ensure they remain crisp.

If you're looking to customize, consider adding leafy greens such as spinach or kale immediately after adding the vegetables. They wilt quickly and provide an additional layer of flavor and nutrition without altering the cooking time significantly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup white rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences!

Cooking Steps

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, roughly 5 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Add Vegetables

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the mixed vegetables. Cover and allow them to heat through.

Let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add more vegetables for a nutritious boost!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is not only a speedy weeknight meal but also an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, just reheat and add the rice, broth, and seasoning; it will cut down on your cooking time while maintaining flavor.

If you're meal prepping, this dish freezes well too. After it cools, portion it into airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this skillet dish with a side of crispy garlic bread or a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. The freshness of a salad complements the savory beef and rice beautifully, making it a well-rounded meal.

For a bit of extra flavor, try garnishing the finished dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, adding a pop of color and a fresh aroma. Additionally, a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking can create a delightful cheesy crust that elevates the entire dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time; brown rice usually takes longer to cook.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat. Just note that the rice may absorb more liquid when stored.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more variety and nutrients.