Save A hearty, budget-friendly one-pan meal featuring ground beef or turkey, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice all cooked together for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
I first made this ground beef skillet on a busy weeknight when I wanted something filling yet quick to prep. It became a family favorite for its versatility and simple steps.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or ground turkey: 1 lb (450 g)
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Frozen corn: 1 cup (150 g)
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (150 g)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g), rinsed
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 2¼ cups (540 ml)
- Kosher salt: 1½ tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: ½ tsp
- Chili powder: ½ tsp (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: 2 tbsp, chopped (optional garnish)
- Shredded cheese: ½ cup (50 g) (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Brown the meat
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 4 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add rice and frozen vegetables
- Add the rinsed rice, corn, and peas. Stir to combine.
- Add seasonings
- Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and chili powder if using. Mix well.
- Add broth
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer covered
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Rest briefly
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Finish and serve
- Fluff with a fork. Top with parsley or cilantro and shredded cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Save This dish frequently makes an appearance for Sunday lunches. Everyone enjoys building their own bowl and adding favorite garnishes at the table.
Swaps & Variations
Swap in other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or green beans for variety. Create a vegetarian version by omitting meat and adding beans or tofu.
Meal Prep & Leftovers
This ground beef skillet is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Tools You'll Need
A large deep skillet with lid is essential, along with a sturdy cutting board, chefs knife, and wooden spoon or spatula.
Save A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a little cheese can make this meal extra cozy. Enjoy this easy skillet dinner any night of the week.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and offers a leaner alternative without compromising flavor.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, carrots, or green beans can be added for extra variety and nutrition.
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks properly?
Use the recommended broth amount, simmer covered on low heat until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well refrigerated and can be reheated for convenient leftovers.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Omit the optional cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep it dairy-free.