One Pan Ground Beef And Rice

Name: One Pan Ground Beef And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil

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I love making One Pan Ground Beef And Rice because it’s the ultimate comfort food that's both filling and easy to prepare. With just one pan, I can whip up a hearty meal that combines protein and grains in a delicious way. The ideal mix of spices brings everything together, creating a flavorful dish that's perfect for a busy night. Plus, it’s super versatile—add in some veggies or use different spices to change things up. It’s a dish my whole family enjoys!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:17:35.810Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of a one-pan meal, I was intrigued. It solved my dilemma of saving time and minimizing cleanup. With One Pan Ground Beef And Rice, I discovered the magic of layering flavors. The ground beef browns beautifully, and adding rice allows it to absorb every delicious bite. I particularly love using a mix of spices that includes garlic and paprika, bringing warmth and depth to the dish.

What I appreciate the most is how adaptable this recipe is. The beauty lies in adding whatever vegetables I have on hand, such as bell peppers or peas. This flexibility not only enhances the nutritional value but also showcases what’s in season. I often have my kids help me sprinkle the seasoning, making it a fun family activity!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
All-in-one meal that minimizes dishes
Hearty and satisfying for the whole family
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and spices

Unlocking Flavor with Ingredients

Each component in One Pan Ground Beef And Rice plays a crucial role in achieving a balanced dish. The ground beef not only provides protein but also enriches the dish with its natural fats, contributing to a deeper flavor. When browning the beef, aim for a nice caramelization, which develops a rich, savory foundation. If you're looking to reduce fat, you can choose leaner ground beef, but do keep in mind that a bit more fat enhances the taste.

The choice of spices, particularly paprika, is essential in layering flavors. Paprika adds a smoky undertone that complements the richness of the beef. Feel free to experiment with other spices such as cumin or chili powder for added depth. When adding these spices, let them sauté with the beef for a minute before incorporating the rice, allowing the flavors to bloom and infuse the overall dish.

Perfecting the Rice

Cooking the rice properly is key to ensuring a perfect texture. When you add the uncooked rice to the skillet, give it a good mix with the beef and broth so that every grain is coated in flavor. The beef broth not only adds moisture but also infuses the rice with a savory taste, elevating it from a simple side dish to part of the main event. I recommend letting it come to a gentle boil before reducing the heat; this creates the right bubbling action for even cooking.

To test the rice for doneness, take a few grains and taste them towards the end of the cooking time. The rice should be tender but not mushy. If you find it's still firm after the suggested 20 minutes, you can add an additional splash of broth or water, cover, and let it steam for a few more minutes. This extra moisture helps achieve that perfect fluffy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious one-pan meal!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your one-pan masterpiece.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add the Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Incorporate the Veggies

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the diced bell pepper. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the pepper to soften.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot and enjoy this deliciously simple one-pan recipe!

Enjoy your meal, and savor the satisfaction of a one-pan cleanup!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding your favorite herbs like oregano or thyme. You can also use ground turkey as a leaner option!

Storage and Meal Prep

One Pan Ground Beef And Rice is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is easy—simply use the microwave or heat it on the stove with a splash of beef broth to bring back moisture and flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or for packing into lunches.

If you want to make this dish in advance, consider cooking it fully and then cooling it down before refrigerating or freezing. For freezing, ensure it’s completely cooled and use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.

Delicious Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for many variations to suit your tastes or dietary needs. To increase the nutritional value, consider adding vegetables such as peas, corn, or carrots. Simply toss them in with the rice during the last cooking stage, giving them just enough time to soften without losing their vibrant colors or nutrients.

For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you add the spices. Alternatively, if you're looking to switch up the flavor profile entirely, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. Adjust the seasonings correspondingly, as ground turkey tends to have a milder flavor compared to beef.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

You can add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and they will be good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Sure! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu.