Ground Beef Recipes With Rice

Name: Ground Beef Recipes With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort on a Plate

I love experimenting with ground beef and rice because it's such a versatile pairing! Whether I'm making a comforting casserole or a hearty stir-fry, the combination never fails to impress. This recipe showcases how beautifully these two ingredients meld together with spices and seasonings. It’s convenient, quick to prepare, and perfect for feeding a family. With just a few ingredients, I can create a delicious meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:49:07.357Z

When I first made this ground beef with rice dish, I was left amazed by how such simple ingredients could yield such a flavorful result. The secret is searing the meat to develop that rich, hearty flavor before adding the rice and broth. It elevates the dish and creates a savory base that is truly comforting.

One tip I found helps tremendously is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes off the heat after cooking. This allows the flavors to deepen further and ensures each bite is as tasty as the last. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or meal prepping
Flavorful, filling, and budget-friendly
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

The spices you choose play a crucial role in transforming ground beef and rice into an unforgettable dish. In this recipe, paprika adds a subtle sweetness and warmth, but you can experiment with flavors like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick. If you enjoy heat, consider incorporating cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile dramatically without overwhelming the dish. Always taste as you go, adjusting spices as needed based on your preferences.

Fresh herbs can also enhance the dish significantly. After cooking, tossing in chopped parsley or cilantro adds brightness and freshness. I find that herbs not only complement the savory elements but also make the dish visually appealing. A simple addition of herbs can elevate a comforting meal into something more gourmet. Plus, if you have dried herbs on hand, such as oregano or thyme, they can be added during the cooking process without losing their potency.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking for substitutions, ground turkey or chicken can easily replace the ground beef for a leaner option while maintaining taste. When using long-grain rice, it’s essential to maintain the cooking ratio of liquid to rice; however, you can switch to brown rice for a nuttier flavor, just be sure to adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes. Quinoa is another nutritious alternative that cooks faster and adds protein to the dish.

For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a mix of black beans and corn, which provide protein and texture. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative—just sauté it separately and fold it in before serving to keep the freshness and crunch. Then, personalize your dish by adding sautéed zucchini or diced carrots during the cooking process, which not only adds color but also increases the nutritional value.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.

Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Combine Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice until it is coated in the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce when combining the rice.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can cook the beef and rice mixture ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld even further. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For long-term storage, consider portioning the meal into freezer-safe containers, where it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally, or heat it in a skillet with a splash of beef broth to rehydrate the rice, ensuring it remains fluffy.

To keep the dish fresh for future meals, you might also consider freezing the components separately. For instance, freeze the seasoned ground beef and rice without adding the broth. When defrosted, mix and finish cooking together for a freshly made taste. This technique prevents the rice from becoming mushy during freezing, maintaining ideal texture for serving.

Serving Suggestions

This ground beef and rice dish is hearty enough on its own, but it can be enhanced with simple garnishes. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top makes for a creamy finish, while diced avocado provides creaminess and a fresh flavor contrast. Additionally, serving it with a side salad or some sautéed greens brings balance and nutrition to the meal.

For a creative serving twist, consider stuffing bell peppers with the cooked mixture and baking them until the peppers are tender. This not only alters the presentation but also makes a fun, edible bowl for your meal. You can also serve it in taco style—using tortillas or lettuce wraps, for a casual and interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid used.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding spices like cumin or chili powder for a different twist.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container.