Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

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Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a delicious one-pan dinner that combines juicy ground beef, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings into a filling meal that satisfies every time. Whether you’re rushing through a busy weeknight or just need something cozy with minimal cleanup, this dish comes together quickly and leaves you with full bellies and happy faces.

What makes this recipe stand out is how well it balances flavor and texture. The meat stays tender and flavorful thanks to the sautéed onions and garlic, while the rice soaks up all the rich juices and seasonings in the pan. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet—yes, even the rice—so you get a hearty meal with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This recipe is your weeknight hero. It’s budget-friendly, made with pantry staples, and completely customizable. Whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or packed with veggies, it adapts beautifully. It also makes fantastic leftovers that reheat like a dream, perfect for lunchboxes or lazy next-day dinners.

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hot skillet full of rice and beef, seasoned just right and steaming with aroma. It feels like home, no matter where you eat it.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For best results, use 85% lean ground beef. It has just the right amount of fat to keep the meat flavorful without making the dish greasy. If you’re using leaner beef, like 90% or higher, you may want to add a splash of olive oil during cooking to prevent dryness. And if you only have ground turkey or chicken, don’t worry—they work too, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This dish calls for simple ingredients that might already be in your kitchen. Each one plays a key role in building that rich, savory flavor base.

Ground beef
Adds heartiness and savory flavor as the base of the dish.

Onion
Gives sweetness and depth, balancing the richness of the beef.

Garlic
Essential for aromatic warmth that brings everything together.

Uncooked white rice
Cooks directly in the skillet, absorbing all the flavors.

Beef broth
Infuses the rice with bold, meaty richness as it simmers.

Diced tomatoes
Add acidity and juiciness to brighten the dish.

Worcestershire sauce
Enhances umami and adds a touch of tangy depth.

Paprika
Lends smoky warmth and a hint of color.

Salt and pepper
Classic seasonings that bring the whole dish into balance.

Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Melted on top for those who want a cheesy twist.

How To Make the Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Rice and Seasoning

Stir in the uncooked white rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top (if using), cover again for a couple of minutes until melted, and serve hot.

Serving and Storing This Skillet Dinner

This hearty meal feeds about four people generously. It’s a full dinner in one pan, though you can always serve it with a light salad or warm bread on the side. Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep things moist.

It also freezes well. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, let it cool completely, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet?

A Crisp Garden Salad

A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the skillet.

Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower

Add some roasted veggies to bring balance and color to your plate.

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

Perfect for scooping up every last bite of saucy rice.

Sauteed Green Beans

Lightly cooked green beans with lemon zest complement the savory flavors.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet and buttery corn pairs perfectly with the beefy skillet.

A Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

Cool and creamy, this makes a nice contrast and adds tang.

Pickled Jalapeños or Hot Sauce

For those who like a little kick.

A Fried Egg on Top

Adds protein and turns it into an indulgent brunch or breakfast-for-dinner option.

Want More Skillet Ideas?

If you love this beef and rice skillet, you might also want to try these comforting and flavorful dishes:

• Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with chili flakes? Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach? I love hearing the creative ways you make these meals your own.

Explore beautifully curated weeknight dinners and cozy favorites on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to comfort meal.

Conclusion

This Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is everything you want in a dinner: quick, satisfying, and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re feeding your family or batch cooking for the week ahead, it’s sure to be a regular favorite in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for more.

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