Ground Beef And Onion Rice Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Onion Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cups uncooked rice; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Favorite Dishes

I absolutely love quick and satisfying meals, and this Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet has become one of my go-to recipes. With fragrant spices, tender beef, and fluffy rice cooked to perfection in just one pan, it's a breeze to prepare for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The combination of savory beef and sweet onions creates a delightful flavor that my whole family enjoys. I just can't resist the comforting aroma that fills my kitchen while it's cooking.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:19:36.982Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet, I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious such a simple dish could be. I used a blend of spices that really brought out the savory flavor of the beef and complemented the sweetness of the onions. The trick here is to let the onions caramelize slightly before adding the beef, as it enhances the overall flavor.

I've tried adding different vegetables, like bell peppers and peas, and they work wonderfully too. This recipe is so adaptable! I love that it’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a lot easier. Plus, it's a great meal prep option for busy weekdays!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan wonder for easy cleanup
Flavorful beef combined with sweet onions
Versatile dish that accommodates various veggies

Perfecting Your Beef and Rice

When cooking the beef and onions, aim to achieve a light caramelization on the onions. This not only enhances their natural sweetness but also adds depth to the overall flavor profile of the dish. Keep the heat at medium, and stir occasionally until the onions turn a golden brown. This process usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to use a spatula or wooden spoon to break up the beef, ensuring even cooking and preventing any clumping.

Choosing the right ground beef can make a noticeable difference, especially in terms of flavor and fat content. For this recipe, I recommend using ground beef with about 80% lean meat for the best balance of juiciness and flavor. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, though you'll want to increase the seasoning to maintain flavor since these proteins tend to be milder.

Making It Your Own

This skillet dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables for added nutrition and taste. Bell peppers, peas, or carrots can all complement the beef and onion base beautifully. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly; vegetables like bell peppers might need to be added alongside the onions, while quick-cooking peas can be stirred in during the last few minutes of simmering to retain their color and snap.

If you're looking to make this dish with a healthier twist, consider swapping out white rice for brown rice or quinoa. Just remember that brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time, generally around 30 to 40 minutes. You can also reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium beef broth and soy sauce, which allows you to control the seasoning while still enjoying a flavor-packed meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 large onion, diced
2 cups uncooked rice
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Add the Rice and Broth

Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the rice until it's evenly mixed. Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Skillet

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.

Season and Serve

After the rice is cooked, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating chopped bell peppers or frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, can elevate the dish even further.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet makes for excellent leftovers! Once cooled, store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a splash of beef broth or water can help revive the moisture in the rice, preventing it from becoming dry. Simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

For longer storage, consider freezing this dish. It freezes well and can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as described. This not only saves you time on busy nights but also ensures you have a satisfying meal at your fingertips!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, I like to serve this skillet dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. A simple vinaigrette works wonders to balance the hearty flavors of the beef and rice. Alternatively, you could top the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a burst of freshness and color before digging in.

Another fun idea is to transform leftovers into stuffed peppers. Hollow out bell peppers, fill them with the skillet mixture, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the peppers are tender and slightly charred, usually about 30 minutes. This not only makes for a colorful presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ What other vegetables can I add to this skillet?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even corn. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so they remain tender.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month.

→ What should I serve with this meal?

It's delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.