Ground Beef and Rice Skillet with Tomatoes is the epitome of simple, satisfying comfort food. This one-pan meal combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, juicy tomatoes, aromatic spices, and a touch of cheese for a hearty and balanced dish that’s both wholesome and incredibly flavorful.

It’s one of those classic “dump-and-cook” recipes that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for an easy yet comforting dinner idea, this skillet meal checks every box — easy, fast, and satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. You only need one skillet (meaning minimal cleanup!), and the combination of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes creates a rustic, homey dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

It’s versatile too — you can toss in any vegetables you have on hand, switch up the seasonings, or add cheese for extra richness. The flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together in one pan, making it both practical and delicious.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• One-pan meal: Easy cleanup and perfect for busy nights.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
• Balanced and filling: Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish.
• Comforting and flavorful: Savory, slightly tangy, and deeply satisfying.
• Quick and efficient: Ready in under 40 minutes.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 410 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Skillet:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 or lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 cups beef broth or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for mild heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red or green)
• ½ cup frozen peas or corn kernels
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, for topping)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
3. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
4. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
5. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Rice and Seasonings

1. Stir in uncooked rice, paprika, chili powder, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Toast the rice lightly for about 1 minute — this enhances the nutty flavor.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

1. Stir in diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato paste.
2. Pour in broth and mix well to combine everything evenly.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Step 4: Simmer

1. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. If the rice is not fully tender, add ¼ cup more broth and continue cooking for a few extra minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Once cooked, fluff the mixture gently with a fork.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using) and cover the skillet for a minute to let it melt.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

How to Serve

Serve your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet with Tomatoes hot, straight from the pan. It pairs beautifully with:

• A side of garlic bread or warm tortillas
• A simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables for extra nutrition
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for creaminess

This dish is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Recipe Tips

• Use lean beef for less grease and a lighter dish.
• Don’t rush the simmering step — it allows the rice to absorb all the flavors.
• Add extra liquid if the rice dries out before it’s fully cooked.
• Use fresh herbs for a burst of color and freshness.
• For extra flavor: Stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce before simmering.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet

Add 1–2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top during the final 5 minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy twist.

2. Mexican-Style Skillet

Add 1 teaspoon taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with salsa and avocado slices.

3. Italian-Inspired Skillet

Swap the seasonings for Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme) and use Parmesan cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

4. Vegetable-Packed Version

Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.

5. Spicy Kick

Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef while cooking.

Freezing and Storage

To Store:

• Let the skillet cool completely.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Reheat:

• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the rice.
• Alternatively, microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

To Freeze:

• Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large non-stick skillet or deep sauté pan with a lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the broth to 2½–3 cups and simmer for about 35–40 minutes, since brown rice takes longer to cook.

Q2: Can I make this dish with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Both work beautifully as lighter alternatives to beef.

Q3: Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes?
Yes, substitute with 1½ cups of tomato sauce for a smoother texture.

Q4: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Use plant-based ground meat or substitute chopped mushrooms and lentils for the beef.

Q5: My rice is still hard — what do I do?
Simply add a bit more broth (¼–½ cup) and continue simmering covered until tender.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet with Tomatoes is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and delicious. Every spoonful delivers savory beef, tender rice, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly balanced spices.

It’s an easy one-pan wonder — hearty enough for family dinners, easy enough for weeknights, and delicious enough for leftovers. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it to suit your tastes, this dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home kitchen.