Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet

Name: Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 4 tbsp garlic butter; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup frozen peas; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty

I love whipping up this Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet when I want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of rich garlic butter and savory beef creates an irresistible flavor that makes every bite delightful. Plus, it all comes together in just one skillet, making clean-up a breeze. This dish is not only satisfying, but it also fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone eager for dinner. Trust me, this is a weeknight winner that your family will adore!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:09:36.990Z

When making this Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet, I discovered the magic of combining simple ingredients for an incredible taste. The garlic butter melts into the beef, infusing every grain of rice with savory goodness. I like to sauté the garlic first to bring out its natural sweetness, which truly elevates the dish. One tip is to let the beef brown well, as this adds a fantastic depth of flavor to the whole meal.

Another thing that sets this dish apart is how adaptable it is. I’ve experimented with different vegetables, like bell peppers and peas, and each time it’s been a hit. The recipe is forgiving and allows you to use whatever you have on hand. For a little kick, try adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of soy sauce for an umami boost!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Rich and savory garlic butter flavor
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding Ingredients

The key to a mouthwatering garlic butter flavor in this dish lies in using quality ingredients. Garlic butter, which combines the rich flavor of butter with the robust aroma of garlic, is central to elevating the taste of both the beef and rice. Opt for a homemade mixture if you have the time; simply blend melted butter with minced garlic. This addition not only enhances flavor but also creates a glossy finish to the dish that is visually appealing.

Ground beef is another crucial element, providing a hearty base for the skillet. When selecting your beef, aim for ground chuck with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. This balance ensures enough fat for flavor without becoming greasy, allowing for delicious browning during the initial cooking step. A good sear will add both color and depth of flavor, so don’t rush this process—let it caramelize slightly for optimal results.

Cooking Techniques to Master

As you cook the rice, remember that toasting it for a minute before adding the broth develops a nutty flavor that will enrich the final dish. Be sure to keep the heat at medium-high when you first add the rice, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step is crucial, as it helps infuse the flavors from the beef and garlic butter into the grains, making each bite more delicious.

A common mistake with one-pan dishes is not letting the rice absorb the broth sufficiently. After bringing it to a boil, lower the heat and cover the skillet tightly. This step is essential—steam escaping will lead to undercooked rice. I recommend checking for doneness by fluffing the rice with a fork; it should be tender but not mushy. If you find it still has some crunch, add a bit more broth and cover the skillet for a few additional minutes.

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
4 tbsp garlic butter
1 onion, chopped
2 cups beef broth
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to begin! Let’s get cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet:

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of garlic butter. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Onion

Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice, and toast for a minute before adding the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Add Peas and Finish

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the frozen peas and the remaining garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with parsley.

Enjoy your meal as a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the beef while it cooks. You can also customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Garlic Butter Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a fantastic make-ahead dish that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Ensure it is sealed well to maintain its freshness and prevent odors from mingling in the fridge.

When you're ready to serve leftovers, a quick reheating on the stovetop works best to restore the original flavors and texture. Add a splash of water or broth to the skillet over medium heat to help rejuvenate the dish as it warms up. Stir gently until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes to ensure even warming without drying out the rice.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices! For a medley of flavors, you can add bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach along with the onions. These additions not only enhance the nutrition of the dish but also bring an appealing color contrast that makes the skillet visually vibrant.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing this skillet dish with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving can also elevate the dish to new heights! Try this variation to impress your family or dinner guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You'll need to adjust the cooking time by an additional 15-20 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for garlic butter?

You can use regular butter with minced garlic or olive oil mixed with garlic for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to eat. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, this skillet meal can be frozen. Just cool it completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.