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 long-grain rice; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Inspirations

I love making this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet on busy weeknights. It’s a perfect recipe that comes together in just under 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver when we have a packed schedule. The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies creates a dish that satisfies both our hunger and taste buds. Plus, I appreciate how versatile this meal is; you can easily swap in any vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great dish that we keep coming back to in our home!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:16:06.212Z

When I first tried this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. By browning the beef first and adding aromatic onions and garlic, I found it boosts the entire dish, creating this inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. I often add a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of chili flakes for depth, making it both comforting and exciting.

Another tip that transformed my experience with this recipe was using broth instead of water for cooking the rice. This simple swap enhances the flavor profile and brings a richness that redefines quick meals. Each time I make it, I'm reminded of how easy it is to achieve something that tastes good in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for any family meal
One-pan dish makes clean-up a breeze
Quick prep and cook time without sacrificing taste

Choosing the Right Rice

Using long-grain rice is key for achieving the fluffy texture in this skillet. It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well without becoming mushy. If you prefer a heartier option, brown rice can be substituted; however, it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time—around 25 to 30 minutes simmering instead of the standard 15 minutes for white rice.

Consider rinsing the rice before adding it to the skillet. This step removes excess starch, helping to prevent stickiness. For an added layer of flavor, you can toast the rice in the skillet with the onions and garlic for a few minutes before adding the liquids.

Customizing Your Vegetables

The beauty of this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet lies in its versatility. You can interchange the frozen mixed vegetables with fresh produce based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots make great additions—just chop them into small pieces and add with the onions.

If you opt for fresh vegetables, adjust your cooking times accordingly. For instance, add denser vegetables like carrots earlier in the cooking process to ensure they become tender. Leafy greens such as spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking, wilting beautifully without losing their vibrant color.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Directions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Cook

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to include spices like cumin or paprika. You can also adapt this recipe with your favorite protein or veggies—it's a great way to clean out the fridge!

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply cook the rice and combine everything in one skillet. This saves you about 15 minutes during busy weeknights, making dinner time even more efficient.

If you're looking to freeze any leftovers, portion them into airtight containers and store for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to bring back moisture.

Perfect Pairings

To round out your meal, consider serving this ground beef and rice skillet with a simple side salad. A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of the dish, adding freshness and crunch. Alternatively, freshly baked bread or crusty rolls can help soak up any delicious juices left in the skillet.

If you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top right before serving. Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a creaminess that enhances the dish. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice typically takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It holds up well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked skillet for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.