Ground Beef And Onion Rice Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Onion Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Food

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet on busy weeknights. It's a one-pan dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for when time is tight. The combination of savory ground beef and sweet onions creates a satisfying meal that pleases the whole family. Plus, the rice absorbs all the flavorful juices, turning this humble dish into a delightful feast. I find it's a great balance of nutrients, and it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for all sorts of creative add-ins. Everyone loves it, and I’m sure you will too!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:21:35.917Z

Every time I make Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet, my kitchen fills with a delightful aroma that reminds me of my childhood. I remember cooking with my parents, and this dish was one of our favorites. We would enjoy it together, and it became a comfort food staple for our family. The way the flavors meld together always feels magical!

When preparing this dish, I lean on the technique of browning the beef and onions together. It not only enhances the overall flavor but also creates a lovely base for the rice. This method makes all the difference and ensures that each bite is packed with savory goodness. Give it a try, and you’ll see what I mean!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef perfectly paired with sweet onions
A fulfilling one-pan meal that reduces cleanup time
Versatile and can be adjusted with your favorite spices or veggies

Transforming Ingredients Into Flavor

The choice of spices can greatly influence the flavor profile of this dish. Paprika not only adds a wonderful smoky depth but also brings a beautiful color to the skillet. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder if you prefer a bit of heat or a more exotic flavor. Remember, the key is to balance the spices with the sweetness of the onions, so taste as you go to find your perfect mix.

Incorporating garlic into this dish is essential, as it enhances the overall aroma and lends a warm depth. Mince the garlic finely to release its flavors quickly and ensure it doesn't burn during cooking. If you're a garlic lover, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two for an even bolder flavor.

Perfect Rice Every Time

One of the secrets to perfect rice is to use the right ratio of liquid to rice. In this recipe, the 2:1 ratio of beef broth to rice ensures the grains are fluffy and well-cooked. Additionally, avoid lifting the lid while it’s simmering, as this allows steam to escape and can lead to unevenly cooked rice. Talk about a easy way to avoid disaster!

If you like a little added texture or something extra in your rice, stir in some cooked mushrooms or peppers when you add the broth. They not only boost the flavor but also add visual appeal. Just remember to adjust the liquid if you're adding ingredients that release moisture, so your rice cooks just right.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet keeps well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. To store, let the skillet cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to keep the dish for longer, consider freezing portions. Store it in individual airtight containers, and it will last for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and it will taste nearly as fresh as the first time. I find that making double the batch at the start of the week saves a lot of time and effort during those busy nights.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 large onion, diced
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet:

Brown the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, approximately 7-8 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Incorporate Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Finish and Serve

If using, fold in the frozen peas. Allow them to heat through for a few minutes. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal with family or friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can toss in some bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions. Adjust the seasonings or add your favorite spices to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish alongside a simple green salad to add a fresh crunch and complement the richness of the beef. A vinegar-based dressing can cut through the heaviness and enhance the overall meal. Alternatively, a side of crusty bread can help soak up the flavorful broth, making each bite even more satisfying.

For a more elevated dining experience, consider topping the skillet with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or freshly grated Parmesan before serving. This adds a creamy, salty element that enhances the dish without overpowering it. Just a little goes a long way!

Customization Options

Feel free to customize this recipe based on what you have on hand. If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for the beef, but keep in mind that they might require less cooking time. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the flavor balance.

Adding vegetables is another way to personalize this dish. Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can be sautéed with the onions for additional nutrition and flavor. Just ensure that any extra vegetables do not overwhelm the ratio of rice and broth, which is critical for achieving the right texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your rice is undercooked after the suggested simmering time, it likely means there wasn't enough liquid or the heat was too low. Simply add a bit more broth and continue cooking until the rice is tender. On the other hand, overcooked rice can become mushy; keeping an eye on cooking time is crucial for the best results.

Should your skillet appear too soupy at the end of cooking, you can remove the lid and allow it to simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Conversely, if it's too dry, add a couple of tablespoons of broth and fluff with a fork for a quick fix.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You could use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.