If you’re looking for a comforting, no-fuss dinner that brings bold flavors together with minimal cleanup, this One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish where tender ground beef mingles perfectly with fluffy rice, all cooked in one lovely pot. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient serves a purpose, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is bound to become your go-to weeknight favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple, but each one is a building block for rich flavor and texture in this One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe. From savory beef to the gentle acidity of tomato sauce, every element combines to elevate this dish effortlessly.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base that’s packed with flavor and protein.
- 1 cup uncooked rice: The perfect grain to soak up all the juices while giving the dish its satisfying body.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds depth and a savory richness that infuses the rice and beef.
- ½ cup tomato sauce: Brings a subtle tang and vibrant color, balancing the dish beautifully.
How to Make One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding your ground beef. Break it up gently with a wooden spoon while it cooks so it browns evenly. The goal here is to develop a nice caramelized crust on the meat, which adds layers of savory flavor later on. Make sure to drain the excess fat if there’s too much—it keeps the dish from becoming greasy but still holds onto that meaty goodness.
Step 2: Add Rice, Broth, and Tomato Sauce
Once the beef is perfectly browned, sprinkle in your uncooked rice right over the meat. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring everything together gently until well combined. This is the magic moment where all the flavors start to meld, and the rice begins its journey toward fluffy perfection. Stir a few times to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom and the tomato sauce is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cover and Simmer Until Rice is Tender
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid, allowing the rice to absorb all the tasty broth and cook until tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes, but keep an eye on it as ovens and stoves can vary. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently since the steam is essential for perfectly cooked rice. Once the rice is soft and has soaked up the flavors, your dish is ready to delight everyone at the table.
How to Serve One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of brightness and freshness right before serving. For a little extra flair, you can also scatter some shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream, which adds a creamy contrast to the savory base.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies. Simple roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans complement the warmth and heartiness of your One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe perfectly, rounding out your meal with vibrant colors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or family dinners, serve the beef and rice in a big rustic bowl right from the pot for a casual and cozy vibe. Alternatively, spoon it into individual ramekins and top with garnishes for an elevated but effortless presentation that’s sure to impress without adding stress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even tastier. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best quality and safety.
Freezing
This One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe freezes incredibly well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags to keep it fresh. When you’re ready, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat for a convenient meal that feels freshly made.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it feels dry. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, so it heats evenly without losing moisture or texture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice in this One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but remember it requires a longer cooking time, usually about 40-45 minutes, and a bit more liquid. Adjust accordingly to avoid undercooked rice.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap out the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The tomato sauce and spices will still deliver plenty of flavor.
What if I don’t have tomato sauce?
If tomato sauce isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes, tomato paste diluted with a bit of water, or even skip it for a more mild taste, though it does add a lovely richness.
Can I add vegetables directly into the pot?
Yes! Adding diced bell peppers, onions, or peas can boost the nutrition and brighten up the dish. Just add them in when you add the rice and broth so they have time to cook.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom?
Using a heavy-bottomed pot and stirring once or twice right after adding the liquid helps prevent sticking. Also, keeping the heat low during the simmer is key to gentle cooking and avoiding scorch marks.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe is one of those wonderfully straightforward meals that proves you don’t need complexity to create something delicious and comforting. It’s an easy dinner that feels special every time you serve it, with the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I encourage you to give it a try tonight—you just might find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Print
One-Pot Beef & Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and hearty one-pot meal featuring ground beef cooked with rice in a savory tomato and beef broth mixture. This comforting dish is easy to prepare with minimal cleanup, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that serves the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, crumble and cook the ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally to break up the meat.
- Add Rice, Broth, and Sauce: Once the beef is browned, stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and tomato sauce until well combined.
- Cover and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the mixture simmer gently until the rice is fully cooked and tender, approximately 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- For more flavor, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder before cooking the beef.
- If using white rice, adjust liquid ratios accordingly if substituting with other types like brown rice.
- Let the pot sit covered off the heat for 5 minutes after cooking to allow rice to fluff.
