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One Pot Beef and Rice Skillet

One Pot Beef and Rice Skillet – A Comforting, Weeknight-Friendly Meal

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 can (8 oz/227 g) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Warm the skillet: Set a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
  • Brown the beef: Add ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains, about 5–6 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
  • Add aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened and lightly golden, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Season it: Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef and veggies in the spices.
  • Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice. Stir for 1 minute to toast it slightly. This helps keep the grains separate and boosts flavor.
  • Pour in liquids: Add diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a steady simmer.
  • Cover and cook: Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
  • Finish with add-ins: Stir in frozen corn, if using, and cook 2 more minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  • Cheesy top (optional): Sprinkle cheese over the skillet. Cover for 1–2 minutes to melt.
  • Garnish and serve: Top with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve with lime wedges for brightness.