Ground Beef Recipes With Rice

Name: Ground Beef Recipes With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Bell peppers, chopped; Corn or peas; Cheddar cheese, for topping; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Cooking Made Easy

When I think of comforting meals, ground beef with rice is always at the top of my list. I love how versatile it is—the combination can be spiced up with different herbs and sauces or kept simple for a quick weeknight dinner. Throughout my culinary journey, I’ve experimented with various ways to elevate this dish, whether it’s through adding fresh vegetables for crunch or different cheeses for that decadent finish. It never fails to satisfy both my cravings and those of my family.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:04:09.696Z

Each time I make ground beef with rice, I find myself reminiscing about family dinners where we would gather around the table, savoring each bite together. I enjoy experimenting with various flavor profiles—from hearty Italian herbs to spicy Asian sauces. One of my favorite tips is to allow the flavors to meld together on a low simmer; it really makes a difference in taste!

Another aspect I love is how easily you can adjust the recipe to fit different dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a gluten-free option or want to switch up the protein, the core concept of ground beef and rice remains comforting and satisfying, regardless of the variations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting balance of flavors that will please everyone
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices

Understanding the Flavor Profile

Ground beef and rice create a rich base that is further enhanced by the spices in this recipe. Cumin and paprika not only add warmth but also depth, complementing the natural flavors of the beef. As the dish simmers, the spices meld with the beef, creating a cohesive flavor experience that's both satisfying and complex. This balance is key—too much salt or spice can overpower the rice, while too little can make the dish bland. Aim for a subtle harmony to maximize enjoyment.

The addition of diced tomatoes brings a refreshing acidity that brightens the dish, preventing the beef from becoming too heavy. This tartness contrasts with the silky texture of cooked rice and the tender beef, elevating the overall mouthfeel. If you’re looking for an extra layer of richness, consider using crushed tomatoes instead of diced ones; they’ll create a thicker sauce that clings beautifully to the rice.

Vegetable Variations and Add-ins

Incorporating fresh vegetables will not only enhance the texture but also boost the nutritional value of your meal. Bell peppers add sweetness and a satisfying crunch when sautéed alongside the onions, while corn or peas can introduce an unexpected pop of flavor. If using frozen vegetables, add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender without becoming mushy.

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top just before serving. It will melt into the warm beef and rice mixture, adding an extra layer of creaminess. I recommend using sharp cheddar to cut through the richness—it's a delightful contrast that makes your dish feel indulgent. If you're looking for alternatives, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or even crumbled feta for a Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this hearty dish:

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup rice (white or brown)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Add-ins

Bell peppers, chopped
Corn or peas
Cheddar cheese, for topping
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delicious meal:

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and ground beef. Brown the beef until fully cooked, breaking it up into smaller pieces.

Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the beef is well coated with the spices.

Incorporate Rice and Tomatoes

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Simmer to Perfection

Cover and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Don’t forget to customize your dish with any additional toppings or sides that you love!

Pro Tips

For a healthier twist, consider using lean ground turkey instead of beef or adding more vegetables to the mix for extra nutrients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This ground beef and rice dish is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To warm it up, simply place the mixture in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to restore moisture as it reheats. This keeps the rice fluffy and prevents it from turning mushy.

If you want to prepare a larger batch, this recipe also freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers after it cools completely. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned. This makes dinner on busy nights a breeze!

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe is straightforward. If you wish to increase the servings, simply double or triple the amounts of ground beef and rice relative to the other ingredients. However, keep an eye on the cooking time; larger quantities may require additional simmering to ensure the rice is fully cooked. The key is to maintain the ratio of liquid to rice, so adjust the broth accordingly as you scale up.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can easily halve the recipe. Just reduce the simmering time slightly to avoid overcooking the rice. Cooking smaller portions can help you experiment with spicing without impacting a large quantity, allowing you to find the perfect balance that works for your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, brown rice can be used but will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later use.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This ground beef and rice recipe pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.