Ground Beef and Rice is a classic dish that combines hearty flavors and comforting textures into one satisfying meal. This simple yet delicious recipe features tender ground beef cooked to perfection, mixed with fluffy rice, and enhanced with a blend of spices and vegetables. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dining table, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this ground beef and rice recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The savory notes of the ground beef pair beautifully with the aromatic rice, creating a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in under 30 minutes, and it’s easily customizable to fit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is both satisfying and versatile.
Tips and Tricks
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. Leaner options can result in a drier texture.
- Add Aromatics Early: Sauté onions and garlic with the beef to infuse the dish with flavor from the start.
- Use Broth Instead of Water: For an extra layer of flavor, cook the rice in beef or chicken broth instead of plain water.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a flavor boost. A touch of soy sauce can also enhance the umami profile.
Make Ahead Tips
- Cooked Ground Beef: Prepare and cook the ground beef a day ahead. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, then add it to the rice when ready to serve.
- Pre-cook Rice: You can also cook the rice in advance and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 4 days.
- Vegetable Prep: Chop onions, garlic, and any other vegetables a day ahead to save time during cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, peas, or corn for added nutrition and color.
- Different Grains: Swap out white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
- Spice it Up: Add a kick with some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
How to Serve
Serve the ground beef and rice hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a comforting touch, you could even serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing iced tea. Complement the meal with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet can cleanse the palate beautifully.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, where they will last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet or Dutch Oven: A large skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for browning the beef and cooking the rice.
- Lid: A tight-fitting lid is necessary for cooking the rice properly.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegan: Substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth for cooking the rice.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure any sauces or broth used are gluten-free and use rice or quinoa in place of other grains.
- Dairy-Free: Skip any dairy toppings like cheese or sour cream, or use a dairy-free alternative.
Seasonal Adaptations
- Spring/Summer: Incorporate fresh vegetables like zucchini, peas, or cherry tomatoes for a seasonal flair.
- Fall/Winter: Add root vegetables such as diced carrots or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time.
- What can I substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based substitutes work well.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to your taste.
How To Make ground beef and rice recipe
Ground Beef and Rice
Ground Beef and Rice is a classic dish that combines hearty flavors and comforting textures into one satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking the meat apart, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef mixture.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 425Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 101mgSodium 1203mgCarbohydrates 17gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 34g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This ground beef and rice recipe is not only delicious and easy to prepare but also highly adaptable to fit any taste preference. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that brings everyone together. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it to your liking, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
