One-Pan Beef & Rice Dinner: A Simple, Comforting Meal Made in One Skillet

One-Pan Beef & Rice Dinner is the definition of easy comfort food. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and one skillet, this recipe delivers a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef, tender rice, and savory broth come together into a warm, filling dish that feels like a home-cooked classic.

This is the kind of recipe you make when you want something reliable, budget-friendly, and delicious, without spending extra time cooking or cleaning up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor
• Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples you already have
• Budget-Friendly – Affordable and filling
• Family-Friendly – Mild flavors everyone enjoys
• Perfect for Weeknights – No complicated steps
• Comfort Food Classic – Warm, hearty, and satisfying

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: About 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Season
   Season the beef mixture with salt and black pepper, stirring well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
3. Add Rice and Broth
   Stir in the uncooked rice, then pour in the beef broth. Mix everything together so the rice is evenly spread.
4. Simmer
   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Rest and Serve
   Remove from heat and let the pan rest for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve straight from the skillet for a cozy, rustic meal
• Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables
• Add hot sauce or shredded cheese for extra flavor
• Enjoy as-is or spoon into bowls for easy serving

Helpful Tips

• Use long-grain rice for the best texture
• Keep the skillet covered while simmering to ensure even cooking
• Let the dish rest briefly before serving so the rice finishes absorbing liquid
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end

Variations

• Cheesy Beef & Rice: Stir in shredded cheddar at the end
• Vegetable Boost: Add peas or corn during the last few minutes
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne
• Mexican-Inspired: Add cumin and paprika
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium beef broth

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers for up to 4 days
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but you’ll need more broth and a longer cooking time.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

What type of skillet works best?
A wide skillet with a tight-fitting lid works best.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors make it great for kids.

Conclusion

One-Pan Beef & Rice Dinner is a dependable, no-fuss recipe that proves simple ingredients can still create a delicious, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy evenings, tight budgets, or when you just want comfort food without the hassle, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.