Print

One-Pot Beef and Veggie Rice

One-Pot Beef and Veggie Rice

A quick, easy, and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked long-grain rice. This hearty and colorful dish is nutritious, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights, bringing together protein, veggies, and carbs in a balanced, comforting plate.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Protein

  • 1 lb lean ground beef

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix

Liquids & Sauces

  • 2 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and just cooked through, then drain excess fat if needed to keep the dish light.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Veggies: Add finely chopped onions and garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir and cook until fragrant and translucent. Then add diced bell peppers, frozen peas, and carrots, cooking until the vegetables soften but still maintain some bite.
  3. Stir in Tomato Paste and Spices: Mix in tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper into the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat evenly and build a deep, savory flavor base.
  4. Add Rice and Broth: Pour the uncooked long-grain rice and beef broth into the pot. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged under the liquid for even cooking.
  5. Simmer Until Cooked: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
  6. Fluff and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, mixing the beef and veggies evenly. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use fresh vegetables when possible for vibrant flavor; frozen veggies work well too.
  • Don’t skip browning the beef to enhance the depth of flavor with roasted notes.
  • Watch liquid levels during cooking and add a splash of water if the rice starts to stick.
  • Let the dish rest covered off the heat to allow flavors to meld perfectly.
  • Customize spices by adding cumin, chili powder, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, beef, rice, vegetables, quick dinner, family meal, gluten free, easy recipe, ground beef, weeknight dinner