Ground beef and rice—two humble ingredients that, when combined, create some of the most comforting and satisfying meals you’ll ever put on the table. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight or simply craving a no-fuss, flavorful dish, these two staples come together beautifully in countless ways. From savory skillet meals and zesty stir-fries to baked casseroles and stuffed vegetables, the versatility of ground beef and rice is truly unmatched.

This collection of 12 ground beef and rice recipes showcases just how hearty and filling this duo can be. Each dish has been chosen for its flavor, simplicity, and ability to please even the pickiest eaters. You’ll find recipes influenced by cuisines from around the world—think Mexican-style burrito bowls, Mediterranean-inspired stuffed peppers, Asian rice bowls with bold sauces, and classic American casseroles loaded with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re looking to use up pantry staples or create a comforting dish that stretches your budget, these recipes deliver on both taste and satisfaction.
Perfect for meal prepping, quick weeknight dinners, or hearty family meals, each recipe offers a well-rounded combination of protein and carbs to keep you full and energized. Plus, many of these meals are one-pot wonders, meaning less time cleaning and more time enjoying.
Beefy Rice and Bean Chili

This beefy rice and bean chili is a hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or a gathering with friends. The combination of ground beef, black beans, and rice makes it filling while still being simple to prepare.
The chili has a savory taste, enhanced by spices that give it a little kick. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, this recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to release the spices’ flavors.
- Add the diced tomatoes and black beans. Simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Mix in the cooked rice and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Spicy Beef and Rice Burrito Bowl

This Spicy Beef and Rice Burrito Bowl is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for any day of the week. With seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh veggies, it’s hearty and satisfying. The addition of spices gives it a nice kick, keeping your taste buds excited!
Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual meal with friends. Enjoy customizing it with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or salsa!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rice and black beans, mixing well to combine everything.
- Pour in the beef broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro and your choice of toppings before serving.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

This Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice is a quick and satisfying meal that combines tender beef with colorful veggies, all tossed in a savory sauce. The simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for busy weeknights, yet it still feels special enough for a weekend dinner. The blend of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone at the table.
The stir-fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it not just delicious but also a breeze to prepare. Each bite is packed with a delightful crunch from the vegetables and a hearty flavor from the beef, especially when served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
- Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring everything together to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the stir-fry over a bed of cooked rice and garnish with sliced green onions. Enjoy!
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef

Stuffed bell peppers are a delightful way to combine vibrant colors and rich flavors. This dish features bell peppers filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, and spices, all topped with melted cheese. The taste is a perfect blend of juicy, tender pepper and hearty filling, making it a family favorite.
Making stuffed bell peppers is simple and quick, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. You can customize the filling to your liking, adding in veggies or spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting dish that never fails to satisfy!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in gently. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Creamy Beef and Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Beef and Mushroom Risotto is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy rice creates a hearty meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a twist!
This risotto packs a punch with its rich flavors and creamy texture, making it both filling and satisfying. You’ll love how the beef melds with the creamy rice, while mushrooms add a savory depth. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe allows you to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are tender.
- Add Arborio rice to the pot, stirring to coat the rice in the meat mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add beef broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue until the rice is cooked al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Teriyaki Beef and Rice Bowl

This Teriyaki Beef and Rice Bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s full of flavor. The tender beef, coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice, making it a comforting dish that’s easy to whip up any night of the week.
The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a delightful taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners and satisfying enough to impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Divide the cooked rice into bowls and top with the teriyaki beef mixture. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Savory Beef and Rice Casserole

This savory beef and rice casserole is a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with fluffy rice, all baked together in one delicious dish. It’s packed with flavor from spices and vegetables, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prep. Plus, it’s simple to make, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen!
The combination of tender beef and rice creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Perfect for a cozy night in, this casserole can be enjoyed straight from the oven or reheated for lunch the next day. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top if desired, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your savory beef and rice casserole!
Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Beef and rice stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef and tender rice, all wrapped in soft cabbage leaves. They’re not just delicious; they’re also easy to prepare, making them a perfect weeknight meal for the family.
The savory filling pairs beautifully with the cabbage, creating a satisfying experience in every bite. Topped with a tangy sauce, these rolls are sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 1 head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes until the leaves are tender. Remove the cabbage and let it cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft. In a bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- Assemble the rolls: Take a cabbage leaf and place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
- Cook the rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a small amount of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down and pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your hearty beef and rice stuffed cabbage rolls!
Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

This Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with robust flavors, it features ground beef, tender rice, and vibrant spices that come together in one pan for easy cleanup. It’s not just filling; it’s also a delightful way to enjoy a taste of Mexico at home.
The combination of seasoned beef and hearty rice creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Topped with fresh cilantro and creamy avocado, it looks as good as it tastes. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
- 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced bell peppers and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, taco seasoning, and corn. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado slices.
Cheesy Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini

This Cheesy Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini is a delicious way to enjoy a wholesome meal. Packed with ground beef, rice, and a melty cheese topping, it’s comforting and satisfying without being overly heavy. The flavors combine beautifully, giving a savory bite that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Making this dish is simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Just hollow out some fresh zucchini, fill them with a tasty mixture, and bake until everything is bubbly and golden. It’s a fun twist on a classic stuffed vegetable that brings both nutrition and flavor to your meal!
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to create boats.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and red bell pepper until the meat is cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Fill each zucchini boat with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in gently.
- Top with shredded cheese and place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!
One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet

This One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet is a simple and satisfying dish that brings comfort to any table. The combination of tender beef, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables creates a flavorful meal that’s not only hearty but also easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, it cooks all in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
Your taste buds will enjoy the rich taste of seasoned beef paired with perfectly cooked rice, making this dish a favorite for families and friends alike. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- If using peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Serve hot and enjoy!
Sweet and Sour Beef and Rice

Sweet and Sour Beef and Rice is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of beef with the tangy sweetness of a classic sauce. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The vibrant colors and flavors from the vegetables, along with fluffy rice, make it a filling meal that the whole family will love.
With its balance of sweet and savory notes, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. It’s a great way to enjoy ground beef, and you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables. Serve it over rice for a comforting meal that comes together quickly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and rice vinegar to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the sweet and sour beef over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to creating filling, flavorful meals that don’t break the bank or take hours in the kitchen, ground beef and rice is the winning combo. These 12 recipes prove just how versatile and comforting this pairing can be. So whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, you’ll find something here that’s sure to satisfy every appetite—dig in and enjoy!