Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: This dish is cooked entirely in one skillet, making it perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
- Big flavor, fast: The combination of spices and ingredients results in a flavorful meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of this dish.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Budget-friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this meal won’t break the bank.
- Diet-flexible: This recipe can be easily modified to fit various dietary needs, including gluten-free and dairy-free diets.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in the dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Long-grain white rice: This type of rice holds up well in the cooking process and absorbs flavors beautifully. Brown rice can be used but may require additional cooking time.
- Diced tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes with their juice for added flavor and moisture. Fresh tomatoes can be used but will need to be chopped and may alter the cooking time.
- Beef broth: Choose a low-sodium variety to control the saltiness of the dish. Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base of the dish. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic for even distribution.
- Spices: Chili powder and cumin add warmth and depth to the dish. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste.
- Frozen peas: An optional ingredient that adds color and nutrition. Feel free to use other frozen vegetables like corn or mixed veggies.
- Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the onions and browning the beef. Olive oil or another neutral oil can be used instead.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- Browning the beef: Ensure the beef is well-browned before adding other ingredients. This step is crucial for developing deep flavors in the dish.
- Rice to liquid ratio: The 1:2 ratio of rice to liquid (including the juice from the tomatoes) ensures perfectly cooked rice. Adjust the liquid slightly if using fresh tomatoes.
- Simmering time: Keep the heat low and the skillet covered during simmering to allow the rice to steam and cook evenly.
- Stirring: Avoid over-stirring the rice once it’s added to the skillet. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy and helps maintain its texture.
- Doneness cues: Look for the rice to be tender and the liquid to be fully absorbed. If the rice is still firm, add a bit more liquid and continue cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
- Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
- Mediterranean twist: Use ground lamb instead of beef, and add oregano, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
- Asian-inspired: Swap the spices for soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, and add chopped scallions and water chestnuts.
- Cheesy delight: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella at the end of cooking for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Herbaceous: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil at the end for a burst of freshness.
- Low-carb option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
- Seasonal adaptations: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring or butternut squash in fall for variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Family dinner: Serve this dish as a hearty main course, accompanied by a simple green salad and crusty bread.
- Meal prep: Portion into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Taco night: Use the rice and beef mixture as a filling for tacos or burritos, topped with your favorite toppings.
- Stuffed peppers: Use the mixture to stuff bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender.
- Presentation tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for an appealing finish.
- Pairing suggestions: Pair with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the rice, then refrigerate. When ready to cook, add the rice and liquid, then proceed with the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the rice, then refrigerate. When ready to cook, add the rice and liquid, then proceed with the recipe.
Q: What can I use instead of ground beef?
A: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes work well. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and possibly add more liquid. Check the package instructions for brown rice.
Q: How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
A: Avoid over-stirring the rice once it’s added to the skillet. Let it simmer covered to allow the rice to steam and cook evenly.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Portion into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
Q: Can I make this dish spicier?
A: Yes, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version. Adjust to your taste.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
This Rice and Ground Beef recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, satisfying meal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own with your favorite additions and tweaks.
Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and let me know how it turned out! Enjoy this delicious dish with your loved ones, and remember, a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream can elevate it to the next level.
Rice and Ground Beef
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the beef and spices. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.