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Best One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice Skillet for Kids

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A quick and easy one-pan ground beef and rice skillet that comes together in about 30 minutes using simple ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly meal is a crowd-pleaser that even picky kids will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients first. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the rice, broth, and spices.
  2. Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Add the ground beef to the hot skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to brown. Stir occasionally and cook for another 3-4 minutes until no longer pink.
  4. Drain off excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  5. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  6. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Add the uncooked rice and stir for 1 minute to toast slightly.
  8. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Stir, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits.
  9. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  10. Remove from heat (keep lid on) and let rest for 5 minutes. If using frozen peas or corn, stir them in now and let warm through during resting.
  11. Remove lid and fluff rice with a fork. If rice is still crunchy, add 2-3 tablespoons water, cover, and cook on low for another 5 minutes.
  12. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For best results, use long-grain white rice and do not lift the lid during simmering. The recipe is forgiving and can be adapted with different proteins or add-ins. Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, rice, one-pan, skillet, weeknight dinner, kid-friendly, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://tablemira.com/best-one-pan-ground-beef-and-rice-skillet-for-kids/