Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 c. onion
chopped
- 1 c. uncooked long grain rice
- 2 1/2 c. water
- 1 tsp. salt
- 3 oz. cream cheese
cubed
- 2 c. pasta sauce/tomato sauce)
(see Note below
- 1 tsp. chili powder
Directions
- 1
In skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned; drain.
- 2
Stir in rice, water and salt. Cover and simmer until water is absorbed; about 15 to 20 minutes.
- 3
Stir in cream cheese, pasta sauce and chili powder.
- 4
Cover and heat through.
Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 168 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love? This Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is your answer, bringing together familiar flavors in one convenient pan.
Why This Skillet is Your New Weeknight Hero
What makes this recipe truly stand out is its incredible simplicity and satisfying payoff. With just seven basic ingredients—ground beef, onion, long grain rice, water, salt, cream cheese, pasta sauce (or tomato sauce), and a touch of chili powder—it’s designed for minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It's the kind of comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy evenings without breaking the bank.
Imagine a skillet dish where tender ground beef and fluffy long grain rice mingle with a rich, savory tomato base, all brought together by the luscious creaminess of cubed cream cheese. The subtle warmth from the chili powder adds a delightful layer of flavor without overpowering the dish, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters. This recipe promises a wholesome, flavorful meal that's easy to achieve, delivering a comforting experience that will quickly become a regular in your rotation.
Customization & Variations
This versatile skillet is easily adaptable to your pantry and preferences. For the tomato base, feel free to use your favorite pasta sauce or a plain tomato sauce, depending on what you have on hand or prefer for flavor intensity. You can also adjust the amount of chili powder to your taste; add a little more for a bolder kick, or dial it back for a milder profile. While the recipe highlights ground beef, this foundation lends itself to slight flavor tweaks with ease.
Serving & Context
This Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is tailor-made for casual weeknight dinners and family meals. It's a complete meal on its own, offering protein, carbs, and flavor all in one dish. Serve it warm straight from the skillet for a fuss-free, comforting spread that everyone will appreciate.