10 Savory Rice and Ground Beef Recipes for Cozy Nights

Eating a warm, savory dish that brings together rice and ground beef is like getting a cozy hug from the inside out. The hearty blend of flavors mingling in your mouth creates an experience that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Every bite speaks of comfort, reminding you of family dinners where the food was not just sustenance but a celebration of togetherness.

Speaking of celebrations, I remember the first time I made this delightful dish for my friends. They were skeptical at first, but their eyes lit up with joy after just one taste. It became an instant favorite at our potluck gatherings, and now it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion that calls for deliciousness.

I once served this amazing rice and ground beef creation at a casual get-together, and the compliments kept rolling in like confetti at a parade. The smiles on my friends’ faces reminded me why I love cooking so much!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Long-Grain Rice: Opt for long-grain rice to achieve fluffy grains that don’t stick together.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; remember to chop it finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will enhance the aroma and flavor profile—don’t skimp on this!
• Tomato Sauce: Choose a good-quality tomato sauce to create a rich base; it really ties everything together.
• Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Salt, Pepper): These spices bring warmth and complexity—use them generously!
• Broth or Water: Using broth instead of water adds an extra layer of flavor to the rice.
• Vegetables (Bell Peppers or Peas): Feel free to add colorful veggies to boost nutrition and visual appeal.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and mincing the garlic. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. Keep stirring until no pink remains—your kitchen should smell amazing by now!

Add Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Stir until they become translucent and aromatic; this step is crucial for building flavor.

Add Rice and Tomato Sauce: Mix in the long-grain rice and pour in your tomato sauce. Stir well to coat each grain with flavor; this is where magic begins.

Pour in Broth or Water: Add broth or water along with your spices—cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low; let it simmer like you’re having a cozy moment with tea.

Add Vegetables: If using vegetables like bell peppers or peas, stir them in now! They’ll add color and nutrients while making you feel like a culinary genius.

Just follow these steps closely, breathe in those delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience with this delightful rice and ground beef recipe!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create a delicious rice and ground beef dish, start by browning the beef first. Then, add in your rice and broth to simmer while the flavors meld together beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken. You can also incorporate veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to prevent dryness.

Sharing my first attempt at this recipe still makes me chuckle—it ended with me calling takeout since I mistook rice for quinoa!

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but increase cooking time and liquid due to brown rice’s denser texture.

What is the best seasoning for rice and ground beef recipes?

A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works wonders for flavor!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for quick meals later.

Print

Savory Rice and Ground Beef Delight

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in a warm, comforting dish that combines perfectly seasoned ground beef with fluffy long-grain rice, creating a satisfying meal reminiscent of family gatherings. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers endless customization options, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and festive occasions. With its rich flavors and delightful presentation, this rice and ground beef dish will quickly become a household favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• Optional: 1 cup bell peppers (diced) or peas

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until no pink remains.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until they turn translucent.
4. Mix in the long-grain rice and pour in the tomato sauce, ensuring each grain is coated with flavor.
5. Add the broth or water along with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer.
6. If using, stir in diced bell peppers or peas and cook until tender.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, sauté minced garlic and onion while browning the meat. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots for added nutrition.