Are you tired of the same old boring meals every night? Look no further! Ground beef and rice are a match made in heaven, and when combined with some delicious seasonings and spices, can create a flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering ground beef and rice recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s.
From classic comfort food dishes like Beef and Rice Casserole, to international-inspired meals like Teriyaki Ground Beef and Rice Bowls, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients – perfect for a weeknight dinner that won’t break the bank.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 18 Flavorful Ground Beef and Rice Recipes for Busy Nights. Which one will you try first?
Classic Beef and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender beef, fluffy rice, and savory sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups beef broth
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, and butter. Mix well.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines tender beef, flavorful rice, and a kick of heat from jalapeños. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch, it’s a delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder; season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked rice with the meat mixture; stir until well combined.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this hearty and flavorful recipe that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese for a satisfying dinner. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, then top with shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until filling is heated through and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Ground Beef and Rice Pilaf
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this one-pot ground beef and rice pilaf is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth to the skillet.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of zucchini with the savory taste of beef and rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef and rice mixture.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Lettuce Wraps
Satisfy your cravings with these flavorful lettuce wraps filled with savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups chopped lettuce
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, tomato, or shredded cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the cooked rice, diced onion, and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is well combined.
3. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by spooning the beef-rice mixture onto a lettuce leaf, adding any desired toppings (avocado, tomato, or shredded cheese).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Ground Beef and Rice Bowls
Quickly cook up a flavorful and filling meal with these easy-to-make Teriyaki Ground Beef and Rice Bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet; stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
3. Serve the beef mixture over cooked white rice. Garnish with frozen peas and carrots, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ground Beef and Rice Soup with Vegetables
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy rice. A warm bowl on a chilly day is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
This classic recipe combines tender beef, flavorful rice, and sweet cabbage for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 5 minutes, then remove and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center, and fold the sides over, then roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Place the rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, topped with a crispy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in cooked rice, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Dot the top of the potatoes with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of beef and rice with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and mix well with the beef mixture.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Taco Bake
A hearty, flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines ground beef, rice, and cheese with a crispy taco shell-inspired topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 taco shells, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and crushed taco shells.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Savor the sweet flavor of fresh tomatoes filled with savory beef and rice. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and hollowed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each tomato with the beef-rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with optional mozzarella cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Jambalaya
A classic Louisiana dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This jambalaya recipe combines ground beef, rice, and a variety of spices for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash
This hearty fall dish combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with savory beef and rice, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each squash half with the beef mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Meatball Skillet
Savor a hearty one-pot meal with this flavorful skillet dish, packed with tender meatballs, fluffy rice, and crispy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a plate or tray.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and zucchini; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add meatballs to the skillet, leaving some space between each. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then transfer skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this savory recipe featuring tender beef and rice filling, nestled inside earthy portobello mushrooms. A flavorful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (for an added burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the mixture is fully incorporated and fragrant.
4. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the beef and rice filling, mounding slightly in the center.
6. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Curry Bowl
This hearty curry bowl combines tender ground beef with flavorful rice, crunchy vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until thawed.
6. Serve the ground beef mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 flavorful ground beef and rice recipes perfect for busy nights! From classic comfort food to international twists, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please. Try a Classic Beef and Rice Casserole, Spicy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet, or Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers. Other options include One-Pot Ground Beef and Rice Pilaf, Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying dinner party option, these recipes have got you covered.
