Baked Ground Beef And Rice Skillet

Name: Baked Ground Beef And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup rice (uncooked); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

I absolutely love digging into this Baked Ground Beef And Rice Skillet! It’s an easy, one-pan dish that brings warmth and comfort to our dinner table. With perfectly seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice infused with savory flavors, it’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights. The best part is the crispy bits that form on the edges, adding texture that my family can't resist. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, this meal is a winner in our house, no matter the occasion.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:25:36.219Z

When I first made this Baked Ground Beef And Rice Skillet recipe, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The combination of flavors melded beautifully during baking, creating a dish that felt hearty yet light. I used a mix of spices that really elevated the ground beef, allowing the rice to soak up all those delicious juices. My goal was to create a comforting meal that didn't require hours of preparation and somehow, it worked beyond my expectations!

The trick I discovered was allowing the skillet to sit for a few minutes after it finished baking. This resting time lets the flavors deepen and gives the rice a little more consistency without being mushy. I love serving this dish alongside a simple green salad to balance out the richness. It's satisfying without being overwhelming, and it keeps my family coming back for more.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One-pan meal that simplifies cleanup
Flavorful beef paired with perfectly cooked rice
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Baked Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the ground beef, which contributes not only flavor but also texture. Using a higher fat content ground beef, like 80/20, will yield a richer result;, however, if you're looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too. Just be aware that the dish might be slightly less juicy, so consider adding an extra splash of beef broth to compensate.

Rice is a crucial component in this recipe, as it absorbs the broth's flavors while cooking. Long-grain white rice is typically encouraged for a fluffy texture, but if you prefer brown rice for its nutritional benefits, remember to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice generally requires 45 minutes of baking, so keep an eye on the liquid levels to prevent drying out.

Mastering Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef properly is essential for deepening the dish's flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow the beef to sear until it's browned rather than steaming, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up the meat and ensure even cooking. This Maillard reaction creates a savory base that will enhance every bite.

When layering the ingredients, make sure the rice is evenly distributed. Stirring in the beef broth after adding the rice allows each grain to absorb that delicious, seasoned liquid as it cooks in the oven. Covering the skillet tightly during baking traps steam, helping the rice cook perfectly without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup rice (uncooked)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

With all your ingredients at hand, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and satisfying meal:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brown the Beef

In a large, oven-safe skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened.

Add Seasonings

Stir in the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Combine Rice and Broth

Add the uncooked rice and beef broth to the skillet, stirring to combine.

Bake

Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Add Cheese

If using cheese, remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle the cheese on top, and return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serve

Let the skillet sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your hearty Baked Ground Beef And Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or corn into the skillet before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish is versatile enough to be served on its own or with sides. Consider pairing it with a light salad or some steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. The crispy bits that form on the edges are a family favorite, but if you're feeling adventurous, try adding fresh greens right before serving to give a pop of color and freshness.

For a cozy feel, serve in deep bowls, allowing everyone to dig in. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of hot sauce for a contrast to the savory beef and rice.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook the skillet ahead of time, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15 minutes.

If you want to freeze this dish, cool it thoroughly first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven, similar to the reheating process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically requires longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative, or you can use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

→ What toppings can I add?

Feel free to top it with avocado slices, sour cream, or hot sauce for an extra kick!