Save A hearty, budget-friendly one-pan meal featuring ground beef or turkey, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice cooked together for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
I first made this ground beef skillet when we needed a quick dinner with minimal washing up. It became an instant favorite in our home for its simplicity and robust flavors.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or ground turkey: 1 lb (450 g)
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Frozen corn: 1 cup (150 g)
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (150 g)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g), rinsed
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 2¼ cups (540 ml)
- Kosher salt: 1½ tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: ½ tsp
- Chili powder (optional): ½ tsp, for heat
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro: 2 tbsp (optional garnish)
- Shredded cheese: ½ cup (50 g), optional for serving
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 4–5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Cook the vegetables:
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add rice and other veggies:
- Add the rinsed rice, corn, and peas. Stir to combine.
- Season:
- Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and chili powder (if using). Mix well.
- Add broth:
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Rest:
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Finish and serve:
- Fluff with a fork. Top with chopped parsley or cilantro and shredded cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Save This skillet dish is always a hit at family gatherings, especially the night everyone comes home late. It brings everyone together at the table fast.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet with lid, cutting board, chefs knife, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains no major allergens as written unless cheese is added. Always verify broth and ingredient labels if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (without cheese) contains approximately 390 calories, 11 g fat, 46 g carbohydrates, and 25 g protein.
Save This meal is sure to be a weeknight staple. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your favorite veggies.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative without compromising flavor or texture.
- → What vegetables can I add or replace?
Feel free to swap in zucchini, carrots, green beans, or additional beans for variety and nutrition.
- → Is it possible to use brown rice instead?
Yes, but increase the cooking liquid and time to ensure the brown rice cooks thoroughly.
- → How do I keep the dish dairy-free?
Simply omit the shredded cheese topping to maintain a dairy-free meal option.
- → What is the best way to prevent sticking during cooking?
Use a large deep skillet with a lid and stir ingredients well before covering to allow even cooking and avoid sticking.
- → Can this meal be prepared in advance?
Yes, it's great for meal prep and leftovers; store in airtight containers and reheat gently.