Description
Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick and satisfying one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and a blend of seasonings, all cooked together in a skillet for a deliciously simple dinner. The beef is browned and then simmered with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and broth, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors as it cooks. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. With minimal prep and clean-up, this is a go-to recipe for a fast, comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Ground Beef and Rice Skillet:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (Halal)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 medium tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water, if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for added color and flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (or mixed vegetables of your choice)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Ingredient Highlights
- Ground Beef: Using Halal-certified ground beef ensures the dish is permissible, and it adds a rich, savory flavor to the meal.
- Rice: The rice is a perfect vessel for soaking up all the flavors in the skillet. Choose brown rice for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
- Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and peas not only enhance the flavor but also provide vitamins and nutrients, making this a balanced meal.
- Spices: The cumin, paprika, and chili powder infuse the dish with warmth and depth. Turmeric adds a subtle earthy flavor and a vibrant yellow color.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make this delicious and easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet:
Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the Onion and Bell Pepper: To the skillet with the cooked beef, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Garlic and Tomato: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped tomato (or canned diced tomatoes). Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomato breaks down and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add Rice and Spices:
- Stir in the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet, stirring it in with the beef and vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice and enhance its flavor.
- Add the Seasonings: Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, turmeric (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the rice and meat are well coated with the spices.
Cook the Rice:
- Add the Liquid: Pour in the beef broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add the Peas: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the frozen peas (or any other frozen vegetables you prefer) and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the peas are heated through.
Final Touches:
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 20g