If you’re in search of a delicious and easy-to-make dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your hunger, look no further. This ground beef and rice recipe is a delightful combination of flavours and textures, making it the perfect meal for family dinners or any occasion. Whether you’re a chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is offering a hassle-free cooking experience that anyone can master.
Delicious and easy-to-make dish
This ground beef and rice casserole is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also a breeze to prepare. You’ll find that this dish is easy to follow and yields fantastic results. You can also choose to use ground chicken for the recipe, or explore different ways to cook ground beef with cooked rice.
White rice or brown rice?
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when preparing this recipe is which type of rice you want to use. White rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, basmati rice or conditioned parboiled rice? All variety of rices have their merits. However, we’ve narrowed it down to white rice versus brown rice. White rice is known for its fluffy texture and shorter cooking time, making it a convenient choice for a quick dinner. On the other hand, brown rice is a whole grain that offers more fiber and nutrients. It has a nuttier flavour and takes slightly longer to cook. The choice between white and brown rice depends on your dietary preferences and time constraints.
Total time for making the recipe
The total time required to make this dish is approximately 30–40 minutes. It’s a relatively quick meal, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty and tasty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Level of difficulty
This recipe is suitable for cooks of all levels, from beginners to experienced chefs. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available in most kitchens. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can confidently prepare this all-in-one meal and impress your entire family and friends.
Ground beef rice recipe
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30 - 45Min
- Easy
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Vegan adaptable
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb (ca. 454 g) of lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup (250 ml) of white or brown rice
- 2 cups (500 ml) of beef broth, or vegetable broth for a vegan option
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional for added flavour
- Fresh herbs
- Green onions
- Ginger
- Pepper flakes
- Sesame oil
- Chili powder
- Citrus zest
- Lemon juice
Preparation
First, you'll want to cook your rice. You can use a rice cooker or a pot with a well-fitted lid on your stove-top
While the rice is cooking, place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent, and the garlic is fragrant, usually around 2–3 minutes
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook it on medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. This should take about 5–7 minutes
Add the veggies: Incorporate the diced bell pepper and carrots into the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for an additional 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften
Stir in the hot rice, diced tomatoes, and cups of beef broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer a vegan option). Season with a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 5–10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. This simmering step is crucial for developing the rich flavours of the dish
If desired, enhance the flavour by adding fresh herbs, a teaspoon of ground ginger, citrus zest, and a drizzle of lemon juice. These ingredients will provide a delightful contrast to the savoury and hearty nature of the dish
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavours to meld together even further
Can ground beef be replaced by a vegan protein?
Yes, if you prefer a vegan or plant-based version of this dish, you can easily replace the ground beef with a vegan protein of your choice. Consider using crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Just make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and adjust the seasonings accordingly to match your dietary preferences.
3 tips for the best flavour
To make this recipe truly exceptional, here are some valuable tips:
- Don’t rush the simmering step. Allowing the ingredients to meld together over low heat will intensify the flavours and create a more delicious end result
- Fresh herbs, citrus zest, and a drizzle of lemon juice can provide a delightful contrast to the savoury nature of the dish, enhancing its overall flavour profile
- Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if necessary
The perfect family-friendly recipe
This ground beef and rice casserole is a savoury and satisfying weeknight meal that combines the rich flavours of beef, onions, garlic, and bell pepper with the comforting rice. Whether you choose white or brown rice, this dish is a versatile and easy-to-make option that can suit various dietary preferences and satisfy picky eaters.
With 30–40 minutes of prep time and minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners. By following the provided tips, you can create a complete meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. So, heat up that skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this beef and rice recipe for a satisfying dinner tonight.
With Dainty, your culinary journey is boundless, and we’re here to help you elevate your cooking game. If you want to discover more recipes, don’t hesitate to explore our wide array of rice-based creations. And if you’re looking to perfect your cooking skills, don’t miss our guide to rice cooking methods, in which we demystify the art of cooking rice to perfection.
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