Ground Beef And Rice Comfort Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Comfort Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Table Delights

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Rice Comfort Skillet when I want a hearty, fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This one-pan dish comes together quickly, usually in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights. The combination of ground beef, seasoned rice, and vibrant vegetables offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Plus, I appreciate that it requires minimal cleanup, which is always a bonus after a long day!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:25:36.198Z

When I first created this Ground Beef and Rice Comfort Skillet, I was looking for a way to make a satisfying meal that the whole family would enjoy. The trick is in the seasoning; I love using a mix of garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of soy sauce to elevate the beef's flavor. It really brings everything together in a delightful way.

One tip I found helpful is to let the dish simmer just a little longer than the rice package suggests. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Rich, savory flavors in every bite
Quick to make, perfect for busy nights

Key Technique Tips

When cooking the ground beef, it's important to break it apart thoroughly to ensure even browning. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps prevent clumping, allowing the meat to integrate smoothly with the rice and vegetables. Aim for a rich, caramelized color, which adds depth to the dish. If you notice any fat pooling in the skillet, consider draining it off to avoid excessive greasiness.

For perfect rice texture, use long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati, which remain fluffy and separate. Make sure to rinse the rice under cold water before adding it to the skillet; this removes excess starch and prevents the final dish from being gummy. If you prefer brown rice for added nutrients, be aware it requires a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes total—to be tender.

Flavor Enhancements

While the basic recipe is savory and satisfying, you can easily elevate the flavors. Consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef for an extra depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also enhance the overall aroma and taste. Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices; for instance, cumin or chili powder can give the dish a delightful twist.

This skillet is a fantastic base for customizing according to your palate. Try incorporating frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes of simmering for a pop of color and sweetness. You can also swap out the bell pepper for zucchini or mushrooms, allowing for seasonal adjustments or based on what you have in your fridge.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below to create this comforting dish:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef and Rice Comfort Skillet:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Incorporate Rice and Liquids

Stir in the rice, beef broth, soy sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Serve

Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables or spices based on your preference. This dish is versatile and can be customized easily!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Rice Comfort Skillet is a great dish for meal prep. To make it ahead of time, you can cook the beef and vegetables, then store them separately from the uncooked rice and broth. When you're ready to eat, simply add the components together in the skillet and follow the cooking steps. This approach saves time during the busy week and can be a real lifesaver.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave for a quick meal. The dish may thicken as the rice absorbs moisture, so feel free to add a splash of broth or water during reheating to restore a creamy texture.

Scaling Up or Down

Scaling this recipe can be done easily! If you're cooking for a larger group, simply double the ingredients. Just ensure your skillet is sufficiently large or consider using two skillets. The cooking time may slightly increase, so keep an eye on the rice to ensure it doesn't become overcooked.

Conversely, if you're cooking for fewer people, you can halve the recipe. The leftovers are perfect for lunches or quick dinners, but be mindful to adjust the cooking liquids accordingly to maintain the dish's integrity. If you find yourself with leftover rice or broth, they can also be frozen separately for use in future meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but cooking time may vary. You'll need to adjust the liquid and simmer longer until the brown rice is tender.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this skillet?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Just cook when you're ready to eat!

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple salad or steamed vegetables make a great side for this hearty skillet meal.