One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers
In short: Ground beef, peppers and long-grain rice cooked together in tomatoes and stock in one covered skillet, ready in about 50 minutes with minimal cleanup. It takes about 50 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 35 min
- Total
- 50 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 500 kcal
When the fridge is nearly empty, ground beef and rice make a reliable dinner. The rice cooks in the same pan as the meat, so it soaks up the tomato, paprika and beef juices instead of plain water. Peppers and peas add color and sweetness. Keep the lid on while the rice steams, then let the pan rest for five minutes so every grain is tender. It reheats well, which makes it good for lunch boxes.
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large deep skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. Brown the beef for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it into small crumbs, until no pink remains. Spoon off the fat, leaving about 1 tbsp.
- Add the onion and peppers and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt and pepper for 1 minute.
- Stir in the rice for 1 minute so the grains are coated. Add the tomatoes and stock, scrape up any browned bits and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover tightly and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Scatter the peas over the top, cover again and cook for 3 to 5 minutes more, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Take the pan off the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, taste for salt and sprinkle with parsley.
Tips
- Brown rice works too, but give it 35 to 40 minutes of covered cooking and add 120 ml (1/2 cup) more stock.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime or lemon, or add a pinch of chili flakes with the paprika for some heat.
Questions and answers
Can I make ground beef and rice ahead or freeze it?
Yes. Cool it quickly and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water so the rice does not dry out.
Why is the rice still hard after cooking?
The heat was probably too high, or the lid was lifted and steam escaped. Add 60 ml (1/4 cup) hot water, cover and cook on low for another 5 minutes.
What can I serve with it?
A green salad or steamed broccoli is enough. Sliced avocado on top is a welcome addition.
How long does it take to make One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers?
About 50 min in total: 15 min of preparation and 35 min of cooking.
How many calories are in One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers?
About 500 kcal per serving, with 28 g of protein, 54 g of carbohydrates and 19 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 500 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
