One Pan Ground Beef And Rice

Name: One Pan Ground Beef And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

I love how easy and satisfying this One Pan Ground Beef And Rice recipe is! It’s a weeknight favorite for my family because not only does it come together quickly, but it also provides a complete meal in just one dish. The combination of spicy ground beef, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables makes every bite delicious. Plus, there's minimal cleanup involved, which is always a win when I'm balancing a busy schedule. Let's dive into making this flavorful and comforting dish together!

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:57:36.434Z

Making One Pan Ground Beef And Rice is as much about the process as it is about the result. I remember the first time I tried this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm, hearty, and uncomplicated. I was pleasantly surprised by how the flavors mingled together so beautifully in just one pan! A little garlic and soy sauce elevate the dish beyond the usual fare, giving it a savory depth I absolutely adore.

As I cooked, I realized that using quick-cooking rice really cuts down on the time, and the addition of vegetables like bell peppers and spinach added a vibrant color and texture. It has since become a go-to recipe in my household when I need something delicious in a hurry.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        All-in-one meal that saves time on cleanup
Flavorful ground beef combined with tender vegetables
Hearty and satisfying for the whole family

      

The Importance of Beef Broth

Using beef broth in this recipe not only enhances the flavor of the rice but also ensures it cooks evenly. The broth provides a rich, savory base that complements the ground beef and spices. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the beef broth with water or vegetable broth without sacrificing much flavor. Just be mindful that reducing the broth may slightly alter how the rice absorbs moisture.

For a homemade touch, consider making your own beef broth. A slow simmer with beef bones, onions, carrots, and seasonings for several hours creates a deeply flavored broth that elevates the dish. However, if time is tight, high-quality store-bought broth works wonderfully. Ensure to choose a low-sodium variety, as this allows you to control the salt content later in the cooking process.

Choosing the Right Rice

Long-grain rice is ideal for this dish as it remains fluffy and separates nicely during cooking. It's essential to rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. If you prefer brown rice for its nutty flavor and nutritional benefits, remember that it will require a longer cooking time—approximately 30-35 minutes—so you'll need to adjust your broth and cooking time accordingly.

For a spin on textures, you might try using jasmine or basmati rice, which will impart a subtle aroma to the dish. Just keep in mind that these varieties also cook faster than long-grain rice, so it’s vital to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Customization Options

This One Pan Ground Beef and Rice recipe is incredibly versatile. You can swap the frozen peas and carrots for other vegetables like corn, diced zucchini, or even leafy greens such as spinach. Just be cautious about cooking times; quickly wilting spinach at the end adds freshness without overcooking.

If you're looking to spice things up, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños when you sauté the onions and bell pepper. For an extra layer of flavor, consider stirring in some shredded cheese just before serving, allowing it to melt into the warm dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the meat is browned.

Add the Rice

Stir in the rice, soy sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid.

Mix in Vegetables

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy your one-pan meal!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the beef.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s best to let the dish cool down to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation, which can make the rice mushy. When reheating, adding a splash of beef broth or water can help revive the dish and ensure the rice stays moist.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish for up to three months. Portioning it into single servings before freezing can make it convenient to reheat only what you need. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your serving needs. If you decide to double the recipe, be sure to use a larger skillet to accommodate the extra ingredients without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. Adjust the beef broth proportionally—use twice the amount for doubling—ensuring the rice cooks perfectly every time.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, halving the recipe is simple, but do keep a close eye on the cooking time since less volume may cook faster. Reducing the soy sauce slightly might be wise, as an overly salty dish can develop quickly with smaller portions.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can elevate it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for added texture and nutrition. A light vinaigrette drizzled over greens pairs beautifully and can brighten the flavors.

If you want to serve this dish for a gathering, consider topping it with some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. You can also offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a little heat with their meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid, as brown rice typically requires more time to cook.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or broccoli. Just ensure that they are cut into bite-sized pieces.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving for a quick meal.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying.