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Easy One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice Skillet (30-Min Meal)

Easy One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice Skillet - featured image

A hearty, comforting one-pan dinner featuring ground beef, long-grain white rice, and savory spices simmered in beef broth and tomato sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (do not drain)
  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until meat is browned and onions are soft (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary.
  2. Add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for another 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  4. Add uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer undisturbed for 15-18 minutes.
  6. Check rice for tenderness. If needed, cook for another 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.
  7. Remove lid, fluff rice with a fork, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

Do not rinse the rice to retain starch for creaminess. Keep heat low during simmering to prevent burning. Do not lift the lid while rice is cooking. If using lean beef, the dish may be less moist. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan meal, ground beef, rice skillet, easy dinner, weeknight meals, family friendly, comfort food, gluten-free option