Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Discover the delightful simplicity of the Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, a dish that combines hearty flavors with effortless preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal is both satisfying and comforting, appealing to the whole family.
Using just a few ingredients, including ground beef and Beef Rice-A-Roni, this recipe transforms basic pantry staples into a delicious feast. The savory beef broth enhances the dish, infusing every bite with rich, meaty goodness.
Ideal for those seeking a quick yet flavorful dinner, this skillet recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Gather your ingredients and savor the ease of this delectable dish!
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Ingredients
- Ground Beef: The cornerstone of this dish, ground beef brings a rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture, serving as the perfect protein to elevate your meal.
- Beef Rice-A-Roni: This versatile blend combines rice and pasta with spices, providing a flavorful base that absorbs all the delicious juices, enhancing every bite.
- Beef Broth: Adding depth and moisture, beef broth enriches the dish with its robust flavor, ensuring the rice cooks to perfection while infusing it with savory goodness.
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet: Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQs
The Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. To help you make the most of this easy recipe, here are some tips for success, serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience, and answers to common questions.
Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Ground Beef: Selecting the right type of ground beef can greatly influence the flavor and texture of your dish. Opt for ground beef with a fat content of 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well, although the flavor profile will be slightly different.
- Customize Your Rice: While the Beef Rice-A-Roni is convenient, feel free to personalize your rice mixture. Adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne can elevate the dish. You can also incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas to enhance the nutrition and color of your skillet meal.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer for the recommended time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. This step helps the rice absorb the flavors of the beef broth and seasonings, ensuring a cohesive taste throughout the dish. If you find that the rice is still hard after 15 minutes, add a splash more broth or water and simmer for a few extra minutes.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
- Fresh Salad: Pair your skillet with a light, fresh salad to balance the richness of the beef. A simple mixed green salad topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall meal.
- Garlic Bread: For a comforting addition, serve warm garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky flavors will complement the savory notes of the skillet, making for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots can add color and nutritional value to your meal. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness that pairs wonderfully with the rich beef and rice.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can substitute Beef Rice-A-Roni with other types of rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. If using long-grain or jasmine rice, refer to the package instructions for proper water-to-rice ratios. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. - Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen for up to three months. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. - Can I add more protein?
Certainly! You can mix in cooked sausage or shredded chicken for added protein and flavor. Just ensure that the additional protein is cooked before adding it to the skillet during the last few minutes of simmering.
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the rice has become tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
Ingredients
- 1 box Beef Rice-A-Roni
- 1 small can beef broth approximately 10.5 oz
- 1 pound ground beef
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is fully browned. After cooking, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Brown the Rice: In the same skillet, proceed to prepare the rice according to the instructions provided on the Rice-A-Roni box. Ensure to brown the rice mixture for added flavor during this step.
- Combine Liquid and Beef: Once the rice has achieved a desirable browning, incorporate 1½ cups of hot water along with the can of beef broth. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, mixing everything thoroughly.
