Ground Beef Recipes With Rice

Name: Ground Beef Recipes With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Meals

I love creating satisfying meals that bring everyone together, and this ground beef recipe with rice definitely hits the mark. It's a wonderful fusion of flavors and textures, where the juicy beef meets the fluffy rice. I enjoy how simple ingredients can come together to create something so delightful. Plus, it's versatile enough to adapt with spices and vegetables from my pantry. Let’s dive into this comforting dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:01:18.834Z

When I first experimented with ground beef and rice, I was amazed by how these two pantry staples could create a multitude of comforting dishes. The beef adds a hearty flavor, while the rice absorbs all the spices beautifully, making every bite delicious and satisfying. One lazy afternoon, I decided to mix in some leftover vegetables to the pot, and it turned out to be the most colorful and flavorful meal!

To enhance the richness, I discovered that adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce brings everything together wonderfully. It introduces a slight tanginess that elevates the dish, making it even more mouthwatering. Trust me when I say, preparing ground beef with rice is not only simple but also a fantastic way to nourish both body and soul.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Easily customizable with your favorite spices or vegetables.
Simple cooking method that anyone can master.

Mastering the Ground Beef

When preparing the ground beef, it's essential to ensure it cooks evenly. I recommend using a spatula to break it into small pieces as it cooks. This not only helps it brown nicely but also allows the beef to absorb the flavors from the garlic and onion. Sauté until the beef develops a nice color, about 5-7 minutes. If you notice any excess grease, you can drain it off to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

Another tip for your ground beef is to season it adequately during cooking. This early seasoning allows the beef to really infuse its flavor into the entire dish. Don’t shy away from adding more salt or pepper, especially if you’re using low-sodium beef broth later in the recipe. Adjusting the seasoning is a key step to achieving that rich, savory flavor that complements the rice wonderfully.

Perfecting the Rice

The choice of rice can significantly impact the texture of this dish. While I use white rice for its fluffy consistency, feel free to experiment. Brown rice can be a nutritious alternative, but keep in mind that it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes total. This will slightly alter the liquid ratio, so if using brown rice, consider using 2 1/4 cups of broth instead of 2 cups for perfect results.

To check if the rice is done, look for little holes opening in the surface and no liquid remaining in the skillet. If you find that the rice isn’t quite cooked through after 20 minutes, it’s okay to add a bit more broth or water. Cover the skillet again and allow it to steam for another 5-10 minutes. This ensures the rice remains fluffy and prevents it from clumping together.

Serving and Storing

This dish is best served warm right after cooking, allowing the beef flavors to shine alongside the perfectly cooked rice. However, it makes excellent leftovers since the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Store any extra portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to retain moisture for a better texture.

For variations, consider adding in other vegetables like zucchini or carrots. These can be sautéed with the onion and garlic at the beginning for additional flavor and nutrients. If you're looking for a spicy kick, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before serving can elevate this dish beautifully. The adaptability of this recipe makes it a favorite in my kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Steps

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Rice and Seasonings

Stir in the diced bell pepper, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Pour in the Broth

Carefully pour the beef broth into the skillet and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful ground beef and rice dish with your favorite side or a simple salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add a tablespoon of soy sauce or a handful of frozen peas or corn during the cooking process.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken makes a fantastic substitute, providing a leaner option without losing flavor. Just be aware that chicken may require slightly less cooking time, so keep a close watch to avoid drying it out. Additionally, vegetable broth can replace beef broth for a vegetarian version, along with plant-based beef crumbles to maintain that hearty texture.

For those avoiding rice, quinoa can serve as a delicious alternative. Use a similar quantity and adjust the cooking time as quinoa takes about 15-20 minutes to cook. This swap not only enhances texture but also increases protein content, making the dish even more nutritious.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when making this dish can be excess liquid remaining after cooking. If this happens, increase the heat once covered for a few minutes to allow the steam to escape. Stir gently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom while you absorb that extra liquid.

If you find the dish lacking flavor, consider making a quick sauce with soy sauce and a touch of Worcestershire sauce mixed in just before serving. This adds a savory depth and enhances the overall taste. Always taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, especially if using a homemade broth.

Make-Ahead Tips

For a quicker weeknight meal, you can prep components in advance. Chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge the day before. You can even brown the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before adding the rice and broth; this ensures you have a delicious meal in under 30 minutes on a busy night.

Additionally, if you’re planning to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and use more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you like, such as carrots, zucchini, or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze this meal?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. Allow it to cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before eating.