Easy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Name: Easy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

By Maria Del

March 12, 2025

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Picture this: a warm bowl of perfectly cooked rice topped with savory ground beef simmered in a medley of vibrant spices. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make your stomach growl louder than a teenage boy after football practice. Ground beef and rice is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, comforting you from the inside out.

Now imagine your family gathered around the dinner table, forks in hand, eagerly anticipating that first bite. The moment they dig in, their eyes widen in delight as they savor each mouthful filled with flavors that dance together like an impromptu kitchen party. This isn’t just food; it’s an experience! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you need something that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-prepare ground beef and rice dish brings comfort food to life without breaking a sweat
Its rich flavors appeal to all ages, making it perfect for family meals
Plus, it looks gorgeous on the plate—who knew simple could be so stunning?
Versatile enough to customize based on what’s in your pantry

A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe

I still remember my youngest son declaring this dish his “absolute favorite” at our last family dinner—it was music to my ears!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease without compromising flavor; it’s perfect for browning.
Rice: Long-grain white or brown rice works wonderfully—just follow package instructions for perfect texture.
Onion: Choose a medium-sized onion; it adds sweetness when sautéed until translucent.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they bring an aromatic punch to every bite.
Bell Pepper: Any color will do! It adds crunch and brightens up the dish visually.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper create a flavor explosion; feel free to adjust according to taste.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for depth without overwhelming saltiness—perfect for cooking the rice.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle helps sauté vegetables beautifully while adding healthy fats.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the countertop so you’re ready to dive into cooking without interruption. Chop your onion and bell pepper into small pieces while mincing your garlic.

Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do the trick!

Add Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef with some salt and pepper. Cook until browned while breaking up any lumps—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes.

Add Garlic & Spices: Mix in minced garlic along with chili powder and cumin; cook for another minute until everything is aromatic and inviting.

Add Rice & Broth: Stir in rinsed rice followed by chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; cover tightly for about 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

Fluff & Serve: Remove from heat once cooked through; let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Enjoy garnished with fresh herbs if desired!

This simple yet satisfying ground beef and rice dish is sure to become a staple at your dinner table! Happy cooking!

You Must Know

Ground beef and rice is a delightful combination that’s not only filling but also versatile
The savory aroma wafting through your kitchen is bound to make everyone’s mouth water
Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal, saving you from endless dishes

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a pan, then add rice and broth together for maximum flavor. This method ensures every grain absorbs the savory goodness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas can brighten the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your ground beef and rice dish, season early and often
Ensure even cooking by breaking up the beef as it browns
Don’t skip resting time after cooking; flavors meld beautifully!

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. They were skeptical at first, but after one bite, they all asked for seconds!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but increase the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

What spices work best with ground beef and rice?

Spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder enhance flavors beautifully in this dish.

Can I freeze leftover ground beef and rice?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled properly before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

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