Description: Garlic Butter Beef and Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish that combines savory ground beef with perfectly cooked rice in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of simple ingredients creates a symphony of flavors, making it a family favorite. This dish is versatile, allowing for various customizations to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips): The star of the dish, providing a rich, savory flavor and a hearty texture. Ground beef is easily accessible and quick to cook, while beef strips offer a more refined texture.
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine works great): Rice serves as the perfect absorbent base, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the beef and garlic butter sauce. Long-grain rice maintains a fluffy texture, while jasmine rice adds a subtle floral aroma.
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth (or water + bouillon): Beef broth adds depth and umami to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Using broth ensures that the rice cooks perfectly and absorbs all the savory notes.
- 4 tbsp butter (divided): Butter is the key to the luscious and indulgent garlic butter sauce. It adds richness, smoothness, and a delightful aroma that complements the beef and rice.
- 4–5 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is the quintessential aromatic ingredient, providing a pungent and savory flavor that elevates the dish. Freshly minced garlic ensures the best flavor intensity.
- 1 small onion (diced): Onion adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the dish, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. Diced onion cooks quickly and evenly, infusing the dish with its aromatic essence.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Soy sauce contributes a salty and umami-rich flavor that enhances the savory notes of the beef and garlic butter sauce. It also adds a hint of depth and complexity to the dish.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy and savory depth to the dish, enhancing the umami flavor. Its complex flavor profile complements the beef and garlic perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle spice and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Freshly ground black pepper provides the best aroma and taste.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the dish, providing a pleasant kick that balances the richness of the beef and butter.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens the dish. It also provides a visual appeal, making the dish more enticing.
- Optional: shredded cheese or green onions for topping: Shredded cheese adds a creamy and melty element to the dish, while green onions provide a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Chop the fresh parsley.
- Measure out the rice, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Ensure ground beef is thawed, or slice beef strips thinly if using.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet or pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
- Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. This step helps to release the onion’s natural sweetness and aroma.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Season the Beef
- Stir in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
- Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir to coat it in the flavors.
- Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pan and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Check occasionally to ensure the rice is not sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Add Butter and Finish
- Turn off the heat and stir in the remaining 3 tbsp butter until melted and well combined.
- Fluff the rice and beef mixture with a fork to ensure even distribution of the butter and seasonings.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce, pepper, or salt to your preference.
Step 7: Serve
- Top with chopped parsley, shredded cheese, or green onions if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Beef and Rice recipe is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only one pan and minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. The flavors are also a major draw – the savory beef, fragrant garlic, and rich butter create a truly irresistible combination. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you add vegetables, cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, the possibilities are endless.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a complete meal on its own.
- Pair with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, for a balanced meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Serve with a side salad for a lighter meal.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Tips:
- Use high-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
- Do not overcook the rice, as it can become mushy.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-35g
- Sodium: 700-900mg
(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Beef and Rice is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation, delicious flavors, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the simplicity of this one-pan wonder!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Add about 15-20 minutes to the simmering time and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pan.
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Absolutely! While ground beef is commonly used, you can experiment with other meats such as ground turkey, ground chicken, or even thinly sliced steak. Each type of meat will offer a slightly different flavor profile.
- Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
- Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or add more vegetables like diced mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Can I add cheese to this dish?
- Definitely! Adding shredded cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan can enhance the creaminess and flavor of the dish. Stir in the cheese after the rice is cooked and the butter has melted, allowing it to melt into the mixture.
- Can I freeze leftovers of this recipe?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
