Easy Ground Beef and Rice Dinner (Simple, Cozy, No-Fuss Comfort)

The Story & Intro

Hi, I’m INAYA, 38, from the beautiful island of Crete in Greece, and this Easy Ground Beef and Rice Dinner reminds me of the kind of meals that saved busy days when I was growing up. My grandmother believed deeply in simple food made with care. She didn’t chase perfection. She cooked what she had, trusted her instincts, and fed everyone with warmth and confidence. Watching her taught me that comfort food doesn’t need rules it needs heart.

This easy ground beef and rice dinner fits perfectly into that philosophy. It’s the kind of recipe you make when you’re tired, hungry, and craving something grounding. I still make it when my kitchen feels chaotic and my mind feels full. One pan, familiar flavors, and steady stirring bring everything back into balance.

I love sharing this easy ground beef and rice dinner with women who want reliable meals that don’t demand energy they don’t have. You don’t need fancy ingredients. You don’t need special tools. You just need a little patience and trust that simple food can still feel special. This dish proves it every single time.

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this easy ground beef and rice dinner. These ingredients are affordable, flexible, and easy to find in any US grocery store.

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or lean both work)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

This easy ground beef and rice dinner comes together smoothly if you follow these steps calmly and steadily.

1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, stirring often.
3. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano while the beef cooks.
6. Drain excess fat if needed, but keep a little for flavor.
7. Stir in the uncooked rice and mix until fully coated.
8. Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring gently.
9. Bring the mixture to a light simmer.
10. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until rice becomes tender and absorbs the liquid.
11. Remove from heat and let it rest briefly before fluffing.
12. Garnish if desired and serve warm.

This process stays forgiving. You can adjust seasoning at the end without stress.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This easy ground beef and rice dinner works beautifully on its own, but you can pair it with light sides if you want balance.

Serve it with a fresh green salad for contrast. Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for color. Warm bread or pita helps scoop every last bite. For extra comfort, add a spoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top.

Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.

⏱️ Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

🛒 Ingredients Recap

• Ground beef
• White rice
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Olive oil
• Spices

Simple ingredients create reliable results.

👩‍🍳 Instructions Recap

• Brown beef and aromatics
• Season generously
• Add rice and liquids
• Simmer gently until tender

📝 Notes

• Brown rice works but needs extra liquid and time.
• Add frozen peas or carrots for color and nutrition.
• Spice lovers can add chili flakes or smoked paprika.
• This recipe freezes well for future meals.

🍽️ Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 18g

🍴 Recipe Card

Easy Ground Beef and Rice Dinner
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Comfort / American
Method: One-pan skillet

Conclusion

This Easy Ground Beef and Rice Dinner proves that comfort doesn’t need complexity. It reminds me of quiet evenings in Crete, where food slowed time and gathered people close. I hope this recipe brings that same calm into your kitchen. Cook it slowly, trust yourself, and enjoy every warm bite.