Looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal that combines the hearty goodness of ground beef, the comforting texture of rice, and the vibrant freshness of assorted vegetables? You’re in the right place!
Recipes featuring these three powerhouse ingredients are not only delicious but incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, ground beef, rice, and vegetables come together beautifully to create meals that are balanced, nutritious, and bursting with flavor.
These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but still crave a home-cooked feel. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and allow you to customize based on what veggies you have on hand.
From stuffed peppers to skillet bowls and casseroles, the options are endless. Let’s dive into some tasty recipes that will make these ingredients your new kitchen staples!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combining ground beef, rice, and vegetables offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that satisfies your palate and your nutritional needs. This combination provides a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a balanced meal all in one dish.
Additionally, these recipes are incredibly adaptable. You can swap vegetables based on seasonality or preference, adjust spices to your taste, and even choose different rice varieties like brown rice or jasmine to change up the profile.
It’s an excellent way to use up leftover veggies while keeping your meals fresh and exciting.
Most importantly, these dishes are straightforward to prepare, making them ideal for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you want a quick skillet dinner or a baked casserole, the combination of ground beef, rice, and vegetables is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 cup rice (white, brown, or your preferred variety)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, peas, corn, zucchini)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan with lid
- Medium saucepan (if cooking rice separately)
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander or strainer (for rinsing rice and vegetables)
- Baking dish (if making a casserole variation)
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: If cooking rice separately, rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions with 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside once done.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the mixed vegetables, salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
- Combine rice and beef mixture: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer to blend flavors: Pour in 1/2 cup of beef broth or water to moisten the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Optional cheese topping: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture, cover again, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
“Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and spices to make this recipe your own!”
- Vegetable swaps: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand—spinach, mushrooms, green beans, or even frozen peas and carrots work great.
- Rice alternatives: Try quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a different texture and nutritional profile.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. For a smoky flavor, smoked paprika is an excellent choice.
- One-pot meal: Cook the rice directly in the skillet with the beef and vegetables by adding extra broth. This reduces cleanup and infuses the rice with all the flavors.
- Make it a casserole: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes for a crispy top.
- Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 30% DV |
| Vitamin C | 35% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This ground beef, rice, and vegetable dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
You can also accompany it with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for a more filling meal.
For a lighter option, try topping the dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or chives. Adding avocado slices or a side of roasted sweet potatoes can also enhance the meal’s nutritional value and flavor.
If you enjoy international flavors, consider serving with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
Conclusion
Recipes featuring ground beef, rice, and vegetables are truly the epitome of comfort food that’s both nutritious and delicious. This combination provides a balanced meal that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep solution, these recipes offer satisfying flavors and wholesome ingredients that everyone will enjoy.
Embrace the flexibility of this trio by trying different spices, vegetable combinations, and cooking methods. If you want to explore more delicious meal ideas, be sure to check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion, or add some exciting spice blends with our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
For a different grain inspiration, browse the Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
3 Delicious Recipes with Ground Beef, Rice, and Vegetables
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef, Rice, and Veggies
These colorful stuffed peppers are a nourishing and visually appealing dish perfect for any occasion. The peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, diced vegetables, and a medley of spices, then baked until tender.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed diced vegetables (onion, zucchini, tomatoes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef with garlic and diced vegetables. Drain excess fat.
- Mix cooked rice, tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture.
- Stuff each pepper generously with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake 10 more minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Ground Beef and Vegetable Fried Rice
This quick and easy fried rice brings a delicious twist by incorporating ground beef and mixed vegetables, perfect for a speedy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and garlic, cook until browned.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Push beef and veggies to the side, pour eggs on the empty side, scramble until cooked.
- Add cooked rice and soy sauce, stir everything together and cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
One-Pot Ground Beef, Rice, and Vegetable Skillet
This one-pot meal is a fantastic way to get dinner on the table quickly with minimal cleanup. It’s a comforting dish loaded with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, peas, carrots)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until beef is browned.
- Add rice, mixed vegetables, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in beef broth, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
For more inspiration on wholesome meals, check out our Asian Vegetarian Rice Bowl Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals or explore Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love for budget-friendly ideas.
📖 Recipe Card: Ground Beef, Rice, and Vegetable Skillet
Description: A quick and hearty skillet meal combining ground beef, rice, and fresh vegetables for a balanced dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights and easy to customize with your favorite veggies.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon.
- Stir in bell peppers, peas and carrots; cook for 3 minutes.
- Add rice, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano; stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 40 g
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