This one-pot ground beef and rice recipe is a quick and satisfying meal packed with flavor, nutrients, and minimal prep. Combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and loads of vegetables, it’s like a pilaf but more hearty. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s fuss-free and family-friendly.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper (capsicum), diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 500g (1 lb) lean ground beef

• 2½ tbsp tomato paste

• 1¼ tsp salt

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano (or other herb)

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1 dried bay leaf

• 1¼ cups (225g) uncooked long grain white rice

• 2 cups (500ml) low sodium beef broth

• 2 cups (300g) diced frozen veggies (corn, peas, carrots mix)

• 3 handfuls baby spinach (about 90g/3 oz)

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large pot over high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

3. Stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, onion powder, oregano, cumin, and cayenne. Cook for another minute.

4. Reduce heat to medium. Add rice and beef broth, mixing well. Stir in frozen veggies and bay leaf.

5. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked (do not peek while cooking).

6. Remove from heat. Quickly add spinach on top, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes.

7. Fluff with a fork and mix in wilted spinach. Adjust salt if needed. Serve hot.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 5 servings)

• Calories: 418 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 49g

• Protein: 29g

• Fat: 11g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 62mg

• Sodium: 936mg

• Potassium: 947mg

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 2g

• Vitamin A: 7885 IU

• Vitamin C: 45.1 mg

• Calcium: 64 mg

• Iron: 4.2 mg

A Balanced and Nutritious Meal

One of the standout features of this dish is its nutritional balance. Each serving delivers an impressive 29 grams of protein, primarily from lean ground beef. Protein plays a vital role in maintaining muscle mass, regulating hormones, and keeping hunger in check, which makes this dish both satisfying and energizing.

In addition to protein, the meal is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Thanks to the inclusion of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, frozen corn, peas, carrots, and spinach, it offers a healthy dose of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron. These nutrients contribute to everything from immune health to energy production and digestion.

White rice serves as the primary carbohydrate source, providing quick energy and contributing to the meal’s comforting texture. Although brown rice could be substituted for added fiber, white rice cooks faster and blends seamlessly with the other flavors, making it the ideal choice for busy evenings.

Flavorful Layers from Pantry Staples

What makes this dish exceptionally tasty is the thoughtful layering of flavor from everyday ingredients. Tomato paste adds a rich, umami base while herbs and spices like oregano, cumin, onion powder, and black pepper elevate the savory profile. A dash of cayenne brings optional heat for those who prefer a spicier touch, and a dried bay leaf simmers with the rice to impart a subtle, earthy depth.

The spices are chosen not only for their flavor but for how well they interact with the beef and vegetables. These seasoning combinations mimic some of the flavors found in Mediterranean or Latin dishes, giving the meal a globally inspired feel without being overly complicated or exotic.

Convenience Without Compromise

One of the key advantages of this recipe is how seamlessly it fits into the modern cook’s routine. It is entirely made in a single pot, meaning minimal cleanup—a major bonus for busy families or anyone who wants a fast, satisfying dinner without a kitchen full of dishes. The step-by-step process is straightforward, and it’s designed to be forgiving, so even novice cooks can execute it with confidence.

With a cook time of under 30 minutes, it’s one of those go-to meals that proves you don’t need hours in the kitchen to deliver something hearty and delicious. The “set it and forget it” aspect of simmering the rice makes it even easier, especially for multitaskers managing dinner while juggling other responsibilities.

A Meal Made for Adaptation

Flexibility is a hallmark of this dish. While the recipe calls for lean ground beef, it can easily be adapted to use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. The vegetables can also be tailored to personal preference or what’s in season—zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans would all be welcome additions.

For those watching their sodium intake, the recipe works beautifully with low-sodium beef broth and minimal added salt. Similarly, if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, the dish is naturally gluten-free (as long as the broth and tomato paste are confirmed gluten-free).

It also scales well, making it suitable for both small households and larger families. Leftovers reheat excellently and can even be frozen for future meals, which supports meal planning and reduces food waste.

Kid-Approved and Family-Friendly

This one-pot wonder is not only adult-approved but often a hit with kids, too. The familiar flavors of seasoned beef and rice, combined with soft-cooked veggies and a tomato-based seasoning blend, appeal to even picky eaters. The mild spices can easily be adjusted to cater to young palates, and the soft, comforting textures make it a mealtime favorite.

In family households, versatility is everything. Being able to create a meal that pleases a range of ages and dietary needs without extra work is invaluable. This recipe accomplishes that with ease, making it a frequent flyer in weekly meal rotations.

Ideal for Budget-Conscious Cooking

Affordability is another strong point of this recipe. Ground beef is often one of the more economical protein options, and the supporting ingredients—rice, frozen vegetables, and pantry spices—are widely accessible and inexpensive. Cooking with these staples means the total cost per serving is relatively low, yet the meal delivers in both taste and nutrition.

It’s also a great way to stretch ingredients. A single pound of ground beef, combined with rice and vegetables, can easily serve a family of four to five people. This makes it an excellent option for meal preppers or anyone looking to get the most value from their grocery budget.

The Comfort Factor

Beyond its nutritional and economic benefits, this meal shines as a comfort food. The warm, savory aroma as it simmers on the stove, the familiar flavors of seasoned beef and tender rice, and the nourishing quality of the vegetables all contribute to a deeply satisfying dining experience.

It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table, encourages second helpings, and leaves everyone feeling well-fed and happy. It has a universal appeal that makes it suitable for any season, any time of day, and any type of eater.

A Perfect Addition to Weekly Meal Plans

Whether you’re cooking for a family, preparing meals ahead of time, or just trying to find a foolproof recipe that checks all the boxes, this one-pot ground beef and rice dish fits the bill. Its ease, adaptability, and wide appeal make it a valuable addition to any weekly meal plan. It’s also easy to double the batch and store extra portions in the fridge or freezer for future use, helping to ensure that a healthy, home-cooked meal is always within reach.

It also makes a great base for more elaborate meals. You can top it with shredded cheese, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence, or pair it with a crisp green salad for added freshness. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe as versatile as it is delicious.

Conclusion

The one-pot ground beef and rice recipe is a stellar example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s hearty, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s a true weeknight savior—easy to prepare, easy to clean up, and easy to love. With its balanced nutrition, family-friendly flavor, and cost-effective ingredients, it’s a recipe that earns a permanent place in any home cook’s rotation.

More than just a quick fix, it’s a comforting, adaptable meal that can evolve with your pantry, your tastes, and your dietary goals. Whether you’re feeding a family, stocking your freezer, or just trying to get dinner on the table fast, this one-pot dish proves that delicious, nourishing meals don’t have to be complicated.