Pin A hearty, budget-friendly one-pan meal featuring ground beef or turkey, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice cooked together for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
I started making this skillet when my family requested something filling but fuss-free on busy weeknights. It quickly became a favorite because it packs plenty of flavor and saves time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or ground turkey: 1 lb (450 g)
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Frozen corn: 1 cup (150 g)
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (150 g)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g), rinsed
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 2¼ cups (540 ml)
- Kosher salt: 1½ tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: ½ tsp
- Chili powder (optional): ½ tsp
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: 2 tbsp chopped (optional garnish)
- Shredded cheese: ½ cup (50 g) (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or turkey. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 4 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add vegetables:
- Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Cook garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix rice, corn, and peas:
- Add rinsed rice, corn, and peas. Stir well.
- Season:
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and chili powder if using. Mix thoroughly.
- Add liquid:
- Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Rest:
- Remove skillet from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Finish and serve:
- Fluff with fork. Top with parsley or cilantro and cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Pin My kids love helping me add the veggies and sprinkle cheese at the end. Sharing this meal brings everyone together at the table, especially after a busy day.
Recipe Variations
Swap ground beef with turkey or try beans and tofu for a vegetarian twist. Add zucchini, carrots, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
Meal Prep & Storage
This dish reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It's ideal for meal prep and busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving without cheese: 390 calories, 11 g fat, 46 g carbohydrates, and 25 g protein. Numbers may vary depending on ingredient choices.
Pin Serve this hearty skillet hot, straight from the pan. It's sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well, offering a leaner protein option without sacrificing flavor.
- → What vegetables can I use instead of bell pepper and corn?
Feel free to swap in zucchini, carrots, or green beans to suit your preference or seasonal availability.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish with brown rice?
Yes, using brown rice increases fiber but will require more cooking liquid and additional simmering time.
- → How do I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate extra chili powder or add fresh chopped chili peppers during cooking to adjust the heat level.
- → Can I prepare this skillet ahead of time?
This dish holds up well for meal prep and leftovers, making it convenient for busy schedules.