recipe with ground beef and rice
The Best recipe with ground beef and rice
What I really appreciate is how balanced it is—no one feels like they’re missing out on anything. The rice gives it a light, comforting texture, while the beef adds hearty richness. It’s a great way to sneak in some iron and vitamins without making the kids (or adults) feel like they’re eating “healthy.” Plus, it’s always a hit when someone’s craving something familiar but wants to keep things simple. No fancy techniques, no last-minute stress—just good, solid food that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Easy Beef and Rice Skillet with Tomatoes
A simple, flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a bright tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
2
Drain the ground beef of excess fat, then add it to the skillet. Cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
3
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and oregano. Stir to combine, then add water and rice. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. -
4
Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then serve hot.
🔧Equipment
- Skillet (10-inch nonstick)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Beef and Rice Skillet with Tomatoes Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef and Rice Skillet with Tomatoes
1. What is the best way to ensure the ground beef stays moist while cooking?
Use a nonstick pan or well-seasoned cast iron to prevent browning too quickly. Cook the beef in batches if needed, and deglaze the pan with a splash of water or broth after browning to absorb excess fat. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the meat instead of browning it.
2. Can I substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe?
Yes, brown rice works just fine. It has a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but the cooking time will be slightly longer—about 40 to 45 minutes per cup instead of 20 to 25. Rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess bitterness.
3. How do I know when the ground beef is fully cooked?
Ground beef is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check—it should be slightly pink in the center if cooked thoroughly. Avoid letting it sit at room temperature for more than two hours before serving to prevent bacterial growth.
4. What if I don’t have a rice cooker?
Simmer the rice in a pot over medium-low heat for about 20 to 25 minutes after adding water (1:2 rice-to-water ratio). Stir once halfway through to prevent sticking. Once tender, let it sit off the heat for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, but reheating can dry out the beef. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist—avoid microwaving directly, as it can make the rice mushy.
