Ground Beef And Onion Rice Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Onion Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Meal Inspirations

I love a hearty one-pan meal that's quick and satisfying, and this Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet has become a family favorite. With tender ground beef paired with aromatic onions and fluffy rice, it’s a delicious mix of flavors that everyone enjoys. What's great about this recipe is the ease of preparation – everything cooks together, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully while saving on dishes. In just 30 minutes, I can have a warm, filling meal ready that makes my kitchen smell amazing.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:41:37.559Z

When I first made this dish, I was looking for something quick yet flavorful to prepare after a long day. The combination of savory beef, sweet onions, and perfectly cooked rice amazed me on the first bite. To make it even better, I discovered adding a splash of soy sauce elevates the umami flavor, making each spoonful incredibly satisfying. I love how it's a complete meal that livens up the dinner table.

One tip I’ve learned is to let the skillet rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to settle and the rice to fluff up nicely. As someone who enjoys experimenting with spices, sometimes I toss in a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor. Trust me; you'll want to try this dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling with every bite
One-pan cleanup makes it a breeze to prepare
Great for meal prep or busy weeknights

Ingredient Insights

The key ingredient in this Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet is ground beef, which not only provides protein but also a rich, savory flavor. I prefer using lean ground beef (80/20) to balance flavor and health. This ratio keeps the dish hearty without being overly greasy. If you're pursuing a healthier variant, you can swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, although they might require less cooking time and can dry out if overcooked, so watch carefully.

Onions play a pivotal role in building the dish's foundation. Their natural sweetness balances the savory components, especially when sautéed to a soft, translucent state. If you want to add more depth, consider using yellow or red onions, or even a mix for a touch of sweetness and color. Additionally, adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce alongside the soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor profile, making your dish even more complex.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When browning the ground beef, ensure your skillet is preheated to medium heat. This step creates a nice sear, enhancing flavor through browning reactions. Pay attention to the texture of the beef; it should break apart easily but still have some moisture when properly cooked. Crumbles that are too dry can indicate overcooking, which could lead to a less enjoyable texture in your final dish.

After you've incorporated the cooked rice, stirring well is crucial for even distribution of the flavors. If you find the mixture a bit too thick, you can add a splash more beef broth to loosen it up, ensuring that every grain of rice is coated in that luscious broth and soy sauce combination. Keeping the skillet on low heat during simmering helps in the melding of flavors. This is the time to do your taste test—adjust seasoning before serving.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups cooked rice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Rice and Broth

Stir in the cooked rice, beef broth, and soy sauce. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer Together

Let it simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Stir occasionally.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try substituting half of the beef with ground turkey or chicken. Adjust the soy sauce according to your taste preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Onion Rice Skillet is an excellent dish for meal prep. Once cooked, you can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out and warm it over low heat on the stove. If you'd like to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and it can last up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider keeping the cooked rice separate from the beef and onions until you are ready to eat. This helps to maintain the rice's texture, preventing it from getting mushy during storage. You can reheat the beef mixture and then combine it with fresh, warm rice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a refreshing contrast to the hearty nature of this skillet, serve it alongside a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the richness, balancing the overall meal. Another great accompaniment is quick pickled veggies, which add crunchy texture and tanginess that complements the savory beef and rice beautifully.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes right before serving. This adds a pleasant heat that can elevate the dish without overwhelming it. You can also top the skillet with shredded cheese, allowing it to melt on top, and serve with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for a delicious, taco-inspired twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but the cooking time may increase by 10-15 minutes.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.