Description: One skillet. Pure comfort. This dish is rich, buttery, and unbelievably tasty! Ground beef, fluffy rice, and savory garlic butter come together in perfect harmony for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ medium onion, finely diced
- 1 cup long grain rice (such as Basmati or Jasmine)
- 2 ½ cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients. Finely dice the onion. Measure out the rice and beef broth. Have the garlic powder, salt, and pepper readily available. Chop the fresh parsley if using. This ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process. Having everything prepped and measured out streamlines the recipe and minimizes cooking time.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion. In a large skillet (preferably cast iron or non-stick) heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Break up the ground beef with a spatula and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent and softened, about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the beef is cooked through and no longer pink. This step is crucial for developing rich, savory flavors in the dish.
Step 3: Drain Excess Fat (if necessary). If there is a significant amount of grease in the skillet after browning the beef, carefully drain off the excess fat. Use a spoon to scoop out the grease, leaving the beef and onion in the skillet. Alternatively, you can tilt the skillet and use a paper towel to soak up the grease. Draining the excess fat prevents the dish from becoming overly greasy and enhances the overall flavor.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Combine Ingredients. Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the garlic powder, rice, beef broth, butter, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and the rice is submerged in the broth. The butter will melt and create a luscious, flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook the Rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid. Simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process to allow the rice to steam properly and cook evenly.
Step 6: Fluff and Garnish. Remove the skillet from the heat. Let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and prevents it from becoming sticky. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Beef & Rice Skillet is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only one skillet and minimal cleanup. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory ground beef, fragrant garlic butter, and fluffy rice is simply irresistible. The recipe is also highly adaptable; you can easily customize it to your liking by adding vegetables, different spices, or even cheese. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a complete meal on its own.
- Pair with a side salad for a lighter meal.
- Add steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
- Serve with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
- Accompany with a crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, use bone broth instead of regular beef broth.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- For a richer flavor, use browned butter instead of regular melted butter.
- To prevent the rice from sticking, rinse it thoroughly before cooking.
- If the rice absorbs all the liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a little more broth.
- Don’t overcook the rice, or it will become mushy.
- 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: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 440 kcal per serving (estimated)
- Protein: Approximately 25g per serving (estimated)
- Sodium: Approximately 500mg per serving (estimated) (varies depending on the broth used)
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Beef & Rice Skillet is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The combination of savory ground beef, fragrant garlic butter, and fluffy rice creates a comforting and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. Its adaptability allows for endless variations, making it a versatile recipe that you can customize to your preferences. With minimal prep time and only one skillet required, this recipe is a convenient and delicious solution for busy families. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delightful and effortless meal!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time than white rice. You may need to add an extra ½ cup of broth and increase the simmering time to around 40-45 minutes. Check the rice periodically and add more broth if needed.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the dish. Some good options include diced carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Add the vegetables along with the rice and broth, and they will cook along with the other ingredients.
Q3: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the garlic powder, rice, beef broth, butter, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the rice is cooked through.
Q4: Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
A: Yes, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier. Use lean ground beef (90/10 blend) to reduce the fat content. Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber. Add plenty of vegetables to increase the nutritional value. Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the sodium content.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of the Garlic Butter Beef & Rice Skillet. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
