One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish

Name: One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup rice, any variety; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Weeknight Wonders

When I first made this One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could come together to create such a comforting meal. The best part is that everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. I love how the beef is tender and the rice absorbs all the savory flavors, resulting in a hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a versatile recipe that I keep coming back to, and I can easily adapt it to include whatever vegetables I have on hand.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:41:28.483Z

Recalling my first attempt at this One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish, I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly it came together. The aroma of the beef sautéing with onions and garlic filled the kitchen, making it impossible not to feel excited about dinner. One of my best tips is to let the beef brown slightly before adding the rice, as it builds a richer flavor base.

As I stirred in the broth and rice, watching it all bubble away, I knew this would become a staple in my home. The key is to resist the urge to lift the lid while it cooks, allowing the steam to finish the cooking process without losing any heat. It's a simple yet rewarding dish that always satisfies my family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pot convenience that saves time and effort
Rich flavors that develop as the ingredients simmer
Easily adaptable with different vegetables and spices

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish plays a vital role in delivering rich flavors and textures. The ground beef not only provides protein but also contributes a savory depth that melds beautifully with the spices. The bell pepper adds sweetness and a pop of color, while the garlic and onion deepen the flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Opting for a variety of rice can alter the texture—long-grain varieties offer a fluffier finish, while short-grain can yield a creamier result.

Using beef broth instead of water elevates the dish significantly. Brothers enriched with flavors enhance the overall richness, and for a lighter version, you can swap in a low-sodium broth to control salt levels. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try substituting the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully tender.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

When browning the ground beef, ensure that you're cooking it over medium heat to achieve an even browning without burning. It's important to break it apart with a wooden spoon to avoid clumping, which can result in uneven cooking. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and starts to develop a slight crust, which adds flavor to the dish. Draining the excess fat is crucial if you're using a fattier ground beef; otherwise, the dish may end up greasy.

Stir the ingredients well after adding the rice and liquids to prevent sticking. Once it comes to a boil, I like to reduce the heat to low and cover tightly to lock in steam. This methodology helps the rice cook evenly, ensuring it absorbs all the flavorful broth. To know it’s done, look for the rice to be tender and the liquid completely absorbed, leaving a fluffy texture instead of a mushy one.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup rice, any variety
2 cups beef broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it's fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy this hearty meal that you'll want to make again and again!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some spices like cumin or chili powder. You can also mix in any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider portioning it out before storing so you only thaw what you need. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture.

If you find it's dried out after reheating, adding a bit of broth and stirring can help. For microwave reheating, place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely to allow steam to escape, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your One-Pot Beef and Rice Dish, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish beautifully. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

For an added burst of flavor, pair the dish with your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating some chopped green onions or avocado as a garnish for freshness. These small touches can transform a simple meal into something special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add peas, corn, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

The recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free beef broth and rice.