The aroma of sizzling ground beef wafting through the kitchen is like a warm hug on a cold day. Picture this: tender grains of rice mingling with savory beef, seasoned to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that beckons you home after a long day. Or maybe it’s just your stomach groaning in anticipation. Either way, you’re about to embark on a culinary adventure that’ll leave your taste buds dancing.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a love letter to simple, hearty cooking that warms the heart as much as it fills the belly. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this ground beef and rice recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready? Let’s dive into the deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ground beef and rice dish makes mealtime effortless while delivering rich flavors that everyone loves
- It’s visually appealing with its colorful ingredients and can easily adapt to what you have on hand
- Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!
I still remember the first time I made this for my friends during college. They devoured every last bite while proclaiming me a culinary genius—how could I not be flattered?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease without sacrificing flavor; it’s versatile for various recipes.
- Long-Grain Rice: I prefer basmati or jasmine for their fluffy texture; they soak up flavors beautifully.
- Onion: Dice finely to release sweetness when sautéed; it forms the base of this tasty dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance flavor; always use more than you think you need because garlic is life!
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and nutrients; any color works great here.
- Tomato Sauce: Use canned sauce for convenience; it provides moisture and richness to the mix.
- Spices (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Season generously to elevate all those delicious flavors; don’t shy away from experimenting!
- Broth (Beef or Vegetable): Adding broth instead of water gives extra depth to the rice’s flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté Those Aromatics: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add some olive oil and toss in diced onions until translucent—around 5 minutes should do it! Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add Your Beef Goodness: Push those onions aside and add your ground beef into the pan. Break it apart using a spatula until browned—about 8 minutes should do while ensuring it’s fully cooked.
In With the Veggies!: Toss in chopped bell peppers next. Cook them until they soften slightly—around 3-4 minutes will add some delightful crunch without losing their vibrant colors.
Sauce It Up!: Pour in tomato sauce along with your choice of broth. Mix everything together while letting those flavors meld beautifully—simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
The Grand Finale – Rice Time!: Gently stir in rinsed long-grain rice into the skillet; ensure every grain gets drenched in sauce goodness! Cover tightly and let cook on low heat until liquid absorbs—approximately 20 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy!: Once done cooking, fluff up that glorious mixture with a fork! Serve hot with fresh herbs or cheese sprinkled on top if desired—dinner is ready!
There you have it—the perfect comfort food made effortlessly! What better way to say “I love you” than with homemade ground beef and rice?
You Must Know
- Ground beef and rice is a satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s tastes
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then add onions and garlic for flavor before cooking the rice.
Add Your TouchExperience the delightful flavors of this easy ground beef and rice recipe, perfect for dinners or meal prep. Enjoy simplicity at its best!
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added color and nutrition. You could also try different seasonings or sauces to switch things up.
Storing & ReheatingExperience the delightful flavors of this easy ground beef and rice recipe, perfect for dinners or meal prep. Enjoy simplicity at its best!
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always drain excess fat from the beef before adding rice; it prevents the dish from becoming greasy
- Use low-sodium broth instead of water for cooking rice; it enhances flavor significantly
- Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s key to elevating this simple dish!
Creating this dish reminds me of family dinners where laughter was as abundant as the food itself, especially when my kids tried to guess what secret ingredient I had snuck in.
FAQExperience the delightful flavors of this easy ground beef and rice recipe, perfect for dinners or meal prep. Enjoy simplicity at its best!
What type of ground beef is best for this dish?
Lean ground beef works best, providing flavor without excessive grease.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but remember to adjust cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.
How can I make this recipe more spicy?
Add chili powder or diced jalapeños based on your spice preference for an extra kick.
Delicious Ground Beef and Rice Recipe for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground beef and rice is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines savory beef with fluffy rice, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- Spices: salt, pepper, paprika
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onions until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned (about 8 minutes).
- Stir in chopped bell peppers and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
- Pour in tomato sauce and broth; mix well and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
- Gently stir in rinsed rice, ensuring it's coated with the sauce. Cover tightly and cook on low until liquid is absorbed (approximately 20 minutes).
- Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
