If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together effortlessly, this One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining savory ground beef with tender rice cooked right alongside it, every bite bursts with flavor and texture, all made in one simple skillet. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a satisfying dish without the fuss or multiple pots to clean. This recipe truly nails that cozy, homemade feel with minimal effort.

One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing complicated here — just straightforward, essential ingredients that work together to build a dish full of flavor, texture, and even a pop of color. Each element plays its part, whether it’s the rich beef, the aromatic onions, or the flavorful broth that helps bring it all together.

1 lb lean ground beef: The heart of the skillet, providing rich, savory flavor and plenty of protein.
2.5 cups chopped onions: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that softens beautifully as it cooks.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle garlic undertone that enhances the overall taste without overpowering.
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Cooks perfectly in the skillet absorbing all the delicious juices; brown rice works well for a healthier version.
2½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth): The liquid that cooks the rice and locks in savory beefy richness.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional): Adds a depth of umami and complexity that’s simply irresistible.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
Optional toppings like chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or sliced green onions: Brighten and customize the dish to your liking.

How to Make One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onions

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat, then add the lean ground beef and chopped onions. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. The onions will soften and add natural sweetness that counterbalances the richness of the beef perfectly.

Step 2: Drain Excess Fat, Leaving Some for Flavor

Drain most of the fat from the pan, but leave about a tablespoon behind. That leftover fat adds a subtle depth and helps everything that follows taste even better without being greasy.

Step 3: Incorporate the Rice and Spices

Next, stir in the uncooked rice along with the garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for 1 to 2 minutes so the rice can toast lightly and pick up all those gorgeous flavors developing in the pan.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Bring to a Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and give it a good stir to mix all the ingredients. Then, crank the heat just enough to bring the mixture to a gentle boil—this is essential to getting the rice to cook through evenly.

Step 5: Cover and Cook Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the whole thing simmer undisturbed for 18 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking process will let the rice soak up all the tasty broth and become tender without sticking or burning.

Step 6: Fluff and Adjust Seasoning

Once the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, separating the grains for a perfect texture. Give it a taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed to bring the flavors into balance.

How to Serve One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

This skillet is fantastic on its own, but garnishing really lifts it to the next level. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a touch of herbal brightness, add shredded cheddar or mozzarella for melty, cheesy goodness, or scatter sliced green onions for a bit of crunch and color. These small toppings make the dish feel extra special.

Side Dishes

While this One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe can happily stand alone, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables creates a wonderfully balanced meal. Roasted broccoli or a tangy cucumber salad are fantastic choices to add freshness and a contrasting crunch alongside the warm, savory skillet.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish in individual cast iron skillets for a rustic touch that’s sure to impress guests. You can also spoon it into warm tortillas or stuff it into bell peppers before baking for a fun twist. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa on top brings exciting layers of flavor and texture to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even better.

Freezing

You can freeze the One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating can help restore the moist, tender texture of the rice and prevent dryness.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice in this One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe?

Absolutely! Brown rice works beautifully here, though it will take a bit longer to cook—about 40 to 45 minutes simmering time instead of 18 to 20. Just make sure you have enough liquid and time to allow it to become tender.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand or prefer not to use it, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can provide a similar depth and umami note. You can also leave it out altogether—the dish will still be delicious.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes! The One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely, then package it well to avoid freezer burn. When thawed and reheated, the texture and flavor remain satisfying.

Can I add vegetables directly to the skillet?

Definitely! Toss in diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots when you add the broth to create an even heartier one-pan meal. Just keep in mind that hard vegetables might need a few extra minutes of cooking to become tender.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Leaving a little fat in the pan after draining the beef and cooking the rice gently on low heat covers most issues. Using a heavy-bottomed skillet and stirring occasionally before simmering can also help prevent sticking and burning.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a home-cooked meal that’s both easy and full of flavor, and this One-Pan Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe delivers just that. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s sure to become one of your go-to dishes. Give it a try—you won’t regret adding this comforting skillet classic to your recipe collection!