Get ready to cozy up with these 20 mouthwatering ground beef and rice comfort recipes that are sure to become family favorites. Whether you’re looking for a classic casserole, a hearty soup, or a flavorful stir-fry, this collection has got you covered.
Ground beef and rice is a match made in heaven – the rich flavors of the beef pair perfectly with the comforting creaminess of the rice. And when you combine these two ingredients with some added spices, herbs, and veggies, you get a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of ground beef and rice. From stuffed peppers to shepherd’s pie, and from Mexican-inspired skillets to creamy risottos, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your apron, get cooking, and let the comfort food feast begin!
Classic Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef and savory rice with bell peppers for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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 and minced garlic; cook until onions are translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal. This classic recipe combines ground beef, rice, and cheese for a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked rice, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Pour milk over the top of the casserole and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and spicy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. This recipe combines tender beef, fluffy rice, and bold spices to create a satisfying and filling dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked rice and beef mixture in the skillet, stirring until well combined.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Ground Beef and Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf recipe combines flavorful ground beef with a simple rice dish, all cooked in one pot for easy preparation. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Stir in the rice, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Experience a flavorful twist on traditional cabbage rolls with this hearty dish that combines tender beef and rice with tangy cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, blanched and leaves separated
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
4. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish, drizzle with olive oil. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Savory Ground Beef and Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting blend of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, perfect for a cozy night in. With a rich flavor profile and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean-Inspired Beef and Rice Bowl
This hearty bowl combines tender beef, flavorful kimchi, and savory rice, all wrapped up in a delicious Korean-inspired package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, Gochujang, and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add chopped kimchi to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve beef mixture over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium 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 about 1/4 inch thick.
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, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef and rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
7. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
This recipe combines the comfort of homemade meatballs with the ease of a one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these flavorful meatballs are served in a rich tomato sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, and garlic. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until browned.
5. In a large saucepan, heat tomato sauce over medium-high heat. Add baked meatballs and stir to coat.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or as a sub sandwich filling.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup
This comforting soup combines tender beef, flavorful rice, and sweet bell peppers, all in one delicious pot. Perfect for a cozy meal or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, diced bell peppers, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Beef and Rice Dolmas
A flavorful twist on traditional dolmas, these Greek-style stuffed grape leaves combine savory beef and rice with bright, citrusy notes. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for wrapping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Place dolmas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Ground Beef and Rice Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that combines ground beef, rice, and vegetables in a rich brown gravy, topped with mashed potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, rice, vegetables, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Cook for 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines savory beef and rice with fresh vegetables to create a hearty and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, hollowed out
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
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 it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried oregano to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each tomato with the beef and rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Ground Beef and Rice Stir-Fry
A flavorful and filling meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes! This stir-fry combines the richness of ground beef with the comfort of cooked rice, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ground beef; cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the mixed bell peppers and cooked rice; cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to combine.
5. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of beef and rice with the natural sweetness of acorn squash, making for a delicious and nutritious main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squashes
– 1 pound 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 squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
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, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and olive oil.
6. Stuff each squash half with the beef and rice mixture, dividing it evenly between the two squashes.
7. Place the stuffed squashes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Ground Beef and Rice Risotto
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the creaminess of Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the warmed chicken broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of roasted poblano peppers with savory beef and rice filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 20-25 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and cut a slit down one side of each pepper to create a pocket.
4. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Stir in cooked rice and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Stuff each poblano pepper with the beef and rice mixture, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
8. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Jambalaya
A classic Louisiana-inspired dish, this Ground Beef and Rice Jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot wonder that combines tender ground beef, savory rice, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with tender beef and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
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 it up into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice and set aside.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the beef and rice mixture, dividing evenly among the four mushrooms.
6. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Taco Salad
A flavorful and filling salad that combines the simplicity of taco night with the convenience of a one-dish meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: taco seasoning for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cooked rice, peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, and cilantro to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 delicious ground beef and rice recipes! From classic stuffed peppers to spicy Mexican skillets, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at cheesy casseroles, savory soups, and flavorful bowls. You’ll also find creative twists like meatballs in tomato sauce, shepherd’s pie, and jambalaya. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that only a hearty ground beef and rice dish can bring!
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