This easy one-pan beef and rice dinner is perfect for your Quick & Easy Dinner board. Ground beef, tender rice, tomatoes, bell peppers, and melted cheese come together in about 30 minutes.
It is filling, affordable, and requires minimal cleanup, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love It
- Ready in 30 minutes
- One-pan recipe
- Simple ingredients
- Budget-friendly
- Family-friendly
- Minimal cleanup
- Great for leftovers
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Optional:
- Corn
- Sliced mushrooms
- Red pepper flakes
- Green onions
- Sour cream
How to Make It
1. Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add the Vegetables
Add onion and bell pepper.
Cook for about 3 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add Rice and Seasonings
Stir in the uncooked rice.
Add paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Stir for about 1 minute.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Cook
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.
Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Add Cheese
Turn off the heat.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
Cover for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
7. Serve
Top with fresh parsley and green onions.
Serve hot with sour cream or your favorite toppings.
Easy Recipe Variations
Add corn for extra sweetness and color.
Add mushrooms for more savory flavor.
Use pepper Jack cheese for a spicy twist.
Add taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning for a Mexican-inspired version.
Stir in spinach during the final few minutes for extra vegetables.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of beef broth or water.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Category: Dinner
Method: One Pan
Final Thoughts
When you need a quick dinner, this cheesy ground beef and rice skillet delivers a filling homemade meal with little effort.
Save this recipe to your Quick & Easy Dinner board for a busy weeknight.