Description
This Healthy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is an easy one-pan meal made with lean ground beef, rice, vegetables, and simple seasonings. It’s filling, protein-rich, and perfect for a quick family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
- Fresh parsley, for topping, optional
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add the vegetables: Add the onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Season: Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the rice: Stir the uncooked rice into the beef and vegetables for about 1 minute.
- Add the broth: Pour in the beef broth and stir well.
- Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add the cheese: Turn off the heat and sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top if using. Cover for 2 minutes so the cheese can melt.
- Serve: Fluff the rice gently, add fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
Recipe Tips
- Use lean ground beef for a lighter meal.
- Rinse the rice before cooking if you want less sticky rice.
- Cut the vegetables into small, similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Add spinach, peas, mushrooms, or broccoli for more vegetables.
- Swap white rice for brown rice, but adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep
- Method: One-Pan