Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet on a plate

Ground Beef & Beef · Easy

Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This ground beef and rice skillet is one of the easiest ground beef recipes for a filling, budget-friendly dinner. Everything cooks in one pan with simple seasonings for a meal the whole family will enjoy.

10Prep min
25Cook min
35Total min
  • 1 lbground beef
  • 1/2 cupyellow onion, diced
  • 2 clovesgarlic, minced
  • 1 cuplong-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cupsbeef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz)diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoonchili powder
  • 1/2 teaspooncumin
  • to tastesalt and black pepper
  • 1 cupshredded cheddar cheese
  • for garnishchopped cilantro or green onion
  1. 1In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic together, breaking up the meat, until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. 2Stir in the rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  4. 4Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let sit off heat for 2-3 minutes until melted.
  5. 5Garnish with cilantro or green onion and serve.

Make it yours

  • Add a can of black beans or corn for extra texture.
  • Use ground turkey for a leaner version.
  • Top with sour cream and diced avocado for a taco-style twist.

Good with

  • Warm tortillas on the side
  • A simple green salad
  • Sliced avocado or guacamole

Good questions, answered.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the broth to about 2.5 cups and simmer for closer to 35-40 minutes.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it reheats well; just add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.