When you’re juggling a busy schedule and still want a hearty homemade meal, this ground beef and rice recipe is the hero your dinner table needs. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and loaded with flavor—plus it’s easy to customize based on what’s in your pantry.
Whether you’re feeding a family or just meal-prepping for the week, ground beef and rice is one of those comforting combos that checks every box. It’s savory, filling, and budget-friendly, which makes it a go-to dinner for many households across the USA. And during the summer? It’s perfect for those lazy weeknights when you want something delicious without turning on the oven for hours.
This dish is cooked in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze—and it’s even better the next day. Let’s dive into what makes this ground beef and rice recipe a staple you’ll come back to again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Rice Recipe ❤️
- 🥘 One-pan magic – Less mess, less stress.
- 💰 Budget-friendly – Made with everyday ingredients.
- ⏱️ Quick and filling – On the table in under 40 minutes.
- 🌿 Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or spices.
- 🍽️ Family-approved – Great for kids and adults alike.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | PT15M |
| Cooking Time | PT25M |
| Total Time | PT40M |
| Type | Main Course / One-Pot Meal |
| Cuisine | American / Comfort Food |
| Recipe Yield | 4 servings |
| Calories | ~420 per serving (approx.) |
What You’ll Need 🛒
This ground beef and rice recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to deliver bold flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth or water with bouillon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Corn, peas, or spinach for extra veg
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness
- Red chili flakes if you want heat 🌶️
Let’s Make It! 👩🍳
This is one of those recipes you can’t mess up—it’s straightforward, forgiving, and ready in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. - Brown the beef
Add ground beef to the pan. Break it apart and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed. - Add spices and tomato paste
Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor. - Add rice and broth
Stir in the rinsed rice, then pour in the beef broth. Mix everything well and bring to a simmer. - Simmer and cover
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Don’t lift the lid! - Fluff and garnish
Remove from heat. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Top with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Conclusion: A Weeknight Winner 🌟
There’s something comforting about a hot, hearty meal made with ingredients you probably already have on hand. This ground beef and rice recipe brings together savory meat, tender rice, and bold spices in one satisfying dish that’s ready in under an hour.
It’s perfect for summer because it doesn’t require turning on the oven, and the flavors work beautifully with seasonal salads, grilled veggies, or a fresh fruit plate on the side. Make a big batch—you’ll want those leftovers.
👉 If you try it out, let us know how it turned out! Share your variations or photos with us online. We love seeing your kitchen creations.
FAQs About Ground Beef and Rice Recipe ❓
How to make ground beef and rice without tomato paste?
You can use a few tablespoons of canned diced tomatoes or a splash of tomato sauce. Or skip it entirely for a lighter, more savory flavor profile.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook (about 40–45 minutes). Add extra broth and simmer covered until tender.
What vegetables go well with this recipe?
Peas, corn, spinach, zucchini, or even shredded carrots work great. Stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Definitely! Ground turkey is a lighter option and pairs well with the same spices and ingredients.
Wrapping It Up 🍽️
This ground beef and rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food shortcut—easy, flavorful, and full of versatility. Whether it’s your first time cooking it or your hundredth, it always comes through in a pinch.
Perfect for summer nights when you want to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen, it’s the kind of dish you’ll keep in your back pocket year-round. Add your own twist, swap in your favorite veggies, or double the batch for meal prep.
Looking for more one-pot meal ideas or easy family dinners? Check out our collections for more quick wins and seasonal eats.
Here’s to great meals with minimal fuss! 🍴🌿