Cozy up with these 20 delicious ground beef and rice comfort food recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re looking for a hearty casserole, a flavorful stir-fry, or a comforting bowl of soup, this collection has got you covered.
From classic stuffed peppers to spicy Mexican skillets, cheesy bakes to Korean-inspired bowls, these recipes showcase the versatility and comfort of ground beef and rice as a duo. And let’s not forget about the added bonus of being quick, easy, and budget-friendly – perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering recipes, exploring flavors and techniques that will take your meal prep game to the next level. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s get cooking!
Classic Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of beef, rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and olive oil.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, filling them as full as possible.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy One-Pot Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and satisfying! This one-pot wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and paprika. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet dinner combines the flavors of Mexico with a spicy kick, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up meat with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, peas and carrots, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Bake
This hearty casserole combines juicy ground beef with flavorful rice and a blend of melted cheeses, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked rice with the ground beef mixture and mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean-Inspired Ground Beef and Rice Bowl
Savor the bold flavors of Korea with this simple and satisfying ground beef and rice bowl recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the white rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the Gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Top with the ground beef mixture and garnish with green onions.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines juicy tomatoes with savory ground beef and rice. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cooked rice, parsley, feta cheese, garlic, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Stuff each tomato half with the meat mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
This classic dish is a comforting twist on traditional cabbage rolls. Tender ground beef and fluffy rice are wrapped in fresh cabbage leaves, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cabbage leaves
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Remove the thick white stem from each cabbage leaf.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture onto the center of each leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll up the leaves tightly and secure with toothpicks (if needed).
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the cabbage rolls on all sides, then transfer to a baking dish.
7. Pour tomato paste and chicken broth over the rolls, covering them completely.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Ground Beef and Rice Stir-Fry
This speedy stir-fry is a great way to get a nutritious meal on the table quickly. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll have a flavorful and filling dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the mixed frozen vegetables and cooked rice.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, this recipe fills hollowed-out zucchinis with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and mix well.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef and rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
7. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Ground Beef and Rice Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with these savory meatballs made with ground beef, rice, and a hint of Italian seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Shepherd’s Pie
A comforting and satisfying casserole made with ground beef, rice, and vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This recipe is easy to prepare and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice and butter. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
6. Layer the ground beef mixture and rice mixture in the baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Jambalaya
A classic Louisiana dish that combines savory ground beef, flavorful rice, and spices for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup
This comforting soup combines the flavors of ground beef, rice, and bell peppers in a rich and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, chopped bell peppers, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Taco Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of a traditional taco with the comfort of a warm bowl of rice, all in one convenient meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cumin to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Sloppy Joe Bowls
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting and easy-to-make recipe that combines ground beef, rice, and tangy sloppy joe sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup sloppy joe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced onions, sliced black olives
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the cooked rice, sloppy joe sauce, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir until combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the mixture hot in bowls, topped with your desired toppings (if using).
5. Cooking time: 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Tips: Use leftover cooked rice or cook it according to package instructions before mixing with the ground beef and sloppy joe sauce. Adjust the amount of sloppy joe sauce to your desired level of sauciness.
Ground Beef and Rice Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Dolmas are a classic Middle Eastern dish that combines flavorful ground beef with aromatic rice, all wrapped up in tender grape leaves. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Brush the tops of the dolmas with olive oil and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until grape leaves are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash
This hearty dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with savory ground beef and fluffy rice, perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each squash half with cooked rice mixture, followed by the meat mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Hamburger Helper Copycat
This beloved childhood favorite gets a homemade makeover with our easy-to-make Ground Beef and Rice Hamburger Helper Copycat recipe. This comforting casserole is sure to become a family staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried onion flakes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, dried onion flakes, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked ground beef to the rice mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Bibimbap
This classic Korean dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef, rice, and vegetables in a single bowl. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fried egg or kimchi for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry until they’re tender-crisp.
5. To assemble the bibimbap, place a scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, followed by the ground beef and vegetable mixture.
6. Serve with optional fried egg or kimchi on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the simplicity of cooked rice and the heat of roasted poblanos.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 10-12 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred. Remove from oven and let cool.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and cumin to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each roasted poblano pepper with the ground beef mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a comfort food bonanza with these 20 delicious ground beef and rice recipes! From classic stuffed peppers to spicy Mexican skillets, and from cheesy bakes to Korean-inspired bowls, there’s something for everyone. Discover easy one-pot casseroles, quick stir-fries, and hearty shepherd’s pies. Even try your hand at making homemade meatballs or dolmas (stuffed grape leaves). Whether you’re in the mood for a warm, comforting bowl of jambalaya or a flavorful taco skillet, this collection has got you covered.
