Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet

Name: Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup diced green bell pepper; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup beef broth

Highlighted under: Speedy Home Meals

I love making this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet when I'm short on time but still want something hearty and delicious. The combination of seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice creates a comfort dish that’s simple yet satisfying. In just one skillet, I can create a meal that pleases the whole family, making it a go-to recipe during busy weeknights. Plus, with the green peppers and onions adding flavor, I feel like I'm serving something exceptional without all the fuss.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:37:15.474Z

When I first tried my hand at this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. Using just one pan, I was able to sauté the vegetables before browning the beef, which maximized the flavors beautifully. I learned that the secret is to let the beef caramelize slightly; it makes all the difference in taste.

Over time, I’ve adjusted some ingredients based on what I had on hand. Adding in spices like smoked paprika or even some diced tomatoes can elevate the dish even further. I often throw in some frozen peas at the end for color and a slight sweetness, making this skillet a versatile favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick cooking time, ready in under 30 minutes
One-pan convenience makes cleanup a breeze
Delicious blend of savory beef and vibrant veggies

Smart Techniques for Perfecting Your Skillet

Getting the perfect sauté on your vegetables is crucial for building flavor in this dish. When you add the onions and green bell peppers to the heated olive oil, ensure the heat is set to medium. This allows the vegetables to soften and caramelize slightly—watch for a light golden color. If the veggies start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid a bitter taste. This step usually takes around 5 minutes but can vary depending on your stove's intensity.

When cooking the ground beef, make sure to use a spatula to break it up into small, even pieces in the skillet. This ensures it cooks uniformly, which can take around 6-8 minutes. To avoid ending up with an overly greasy dish, I recommend draining excess fat if there's more than a tablespoon left in the pan before proceeding to add spices. A leaner mix will keep your meal light and allow the spices to shine through.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The beef broth is a key ingredient here, as it deepens the flavor of the dish and helps the rice absorb that deliciousness. If you're looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute low-sodium beef broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian take. Alternatively, adding a splash of soy sauce can also enhance the umami flavor. Keep in mind that if you use a store-bought option, check for added preservatives that may alter the taste.

If you want to modify this skillet dish for different dietary needs, swapping out the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken is a great option. Both will maintain the intended texture while providing a lighter protein. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a mix of beans, adjusting cooking times accordingly. Remember, if you're switching proteins, ensure the meatless options are cooked through and well-seasoned to keep the flavor robust.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup beef broth

All ingredients should be prepared and measured before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Steps to Make the Skillet

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Add Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Season and Combine

Stir in the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute before adding the beef broth.

Add Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes on low heat until heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm! Enjoy your meal.

Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using seasoned broth or adding a splash of soy sauce while cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can prepare the entire skillet ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

If you plan to double the recipe for a larger gathering or to have leftovers, you can easily freeze the dish as well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a touch of broth if it appears dry.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving the skillet with a side salad or some roasted vegetables to add a fresh crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving can add an extra layer of richness that enhances the flavor profile. Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro can also brighten the dish beautifully.

If you'd like to add some heat to the dish, serve it with hot sauce or sliced jalapeños on the side. This can be especially appealing if you're serving a crowd with varying spice preferences. Experimenting with toppings can elevate the simple comfort of this dish into something even more special for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but be aware it will require a longer cooking time.

→ What can I add for extra veggies?

You can add diced tomatoes, corn, or even spinach for more nutrition and color.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This skillet meal freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.