Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

You know those nights when you’re starving, tired, and just done with dishes? That’s exactly when this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet becomes your best friend.

It’s quick, comforting, packed with flavor, and yes—you only need one pan.

I make this at least once a week because it checks all the boxes: easy, budget-friendly, family-approved, and done in 30 minutes flat.

Let’s talk about what makes this skillet so special…

A Cozy One-Pot Wonder

This dish starts with 1 pound of lean ground beef—savory, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying.

You’ll brown it up in a large skillet with a splash of 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in 1 diced onion, 1 diced bell pepper, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. The smell alone will have people peeking into the kitchen.

Once everything’s softened and sizzling, we layer in the flavor:

1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Spices = magic. These simple pantry staples give the dish depth without being overwhelming.

Now here’s where it becomes comfort food central:
We add 1 cup of long-grain white rice (uncooked), 2 cups of beef broth, and 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)—juices and all. Stir it all together, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 18–20 minutes.

So. Much. Flavor.

By the time the rice has cooked through, all those delicious juices have soaked right in. The beef is tender, the rice is fluffy, and the veggies melt into the dish like they’ve always belonged there. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want seconds before you even finish your first plate.

And if you want to go full comfort mode? Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt for a gooey, cheesy finish. No shame. I do it every time.

Why I Love This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

One pan = easy cleanup
Affordable ingredients you probably already have
Feeds a crowd (makes 6 hearty servings)
Super flexible – great for picky eaters and fridge cleanouts
Perfect for meal prep – reheats like a dream

Simple Add-Ins and Variations

Want to mix it up? Here are some of my go-tos:

Add a handful of frozen corn or peas before simmering.
Swap beef broth for chicken broth if that’s what you have.
Toss in black beans or pinto beans for extra protein.
Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Meal Prep Tip

This dish stores really well, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week. Just let it cool, pop it into containers, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully—just thaw and reheat with a splash of broth or water.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s fast, filling, and guaranteed to please just about anyone, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is it. Whether it’s a busy Monday night or a lazy Sunday, this is the recipe I keep coming back to. And once you try it, I think you’ll feel the same.

So grab your skillet and let’s get cooking—your future self will thank you.