I’ve made this Ground Beef and Rice dish more times than I can count. It’s the kind of meal that works on busy weeknights, when you’re low on groceries, or just want something familiar and filling. Best of all? You only need one pan and about 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Meal

When life gets hectic, this Ground Beef and Rice recipe is a go-to. It’s fast, simple, and made with ingredients you probably already have. Here’s why it’s a keeper.

• One pan = less cleanup
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Customizable with what’s in your fridge
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Kids and adults both enjoy it

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to make Ground Beef and Rice. These basic ingredients come together to make a filling and flavorful meal in one pan.

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3/4 tsp salt + pepper
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1.5 cups beef broth
• 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese

Simple Cooking Steps

This Ground Beef and Rice meal is straightforward. Follow these steps, and dinner will be on the table without stress.

1. Brown the beef – Let it sit undisturbed to get a crust.
2. Add veggies – Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
3. Stir in liquids and rice – Add tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire, and rice.
4. Simmer covered – Let it cook until rice is soft (about 20-25 mins).
5. Top with cheese – Cover until melted. Sprinkle parsley if you have it.

Flavor Variations

Ground Beef and Rice doesn’t have to be the same every time. These easy twists keep the meal interesting without adding work.

• Swap beef with ground turkey or sausage
• Use red or yellow peppers instead of green
• Add frozen corn or peas
• Spice it up with chili flakes or taco seasoning
• Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist

Serve It With:

Want to round out the plate? Here are a few simple ideas that go well with Ground Beef and Rice.

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread
• Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots

Final Thoughts

This dish is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something great. It’s filling, fast, and flexible. Save it for your weekly rotation or that day when dinner needs to make itself.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it takes longer to cook and may need extra liquid. Check your rice package for timing.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes. Cool completely, store in a sealed container, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I skip the cheese?
Absolutely. It’ll still taste great, or you can sprinkle on a little at the end.

What if I don’t have broth?
Use water and extra seasoning or dissolve bouillon in hot water.

How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne, hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño during cooking.

Save or share this recipe and keep your weeknights stress-free and satisfying.

Want more?

If this Ground Beef and Rice recipe sweetened your day, there’s more where that came from. From easy one-pan meals to crowd-pleasing comfort food, here are a few more irresistible treats and savory bites packed with flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction. Whether you’re craving another skillet dinner or something a bit different, you’ll find tasty ideas worth trying next.

• Ramen Lasagna: Comfort food mashup magic!
• Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Breast: Crispy, juicy, and weeknight-friendly.
• The Viral Cottage Cheese Flatbread: Low-carb and protein-packed.
• How to Make Low-Fat Yogurt at Home: Budget-friendly and easy-peasy.
• Feeling adventurous? These Sushi Rolls with Salmon are fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly simple for a fun kitchen project.