Italian Beef and Rice Skillet

Italian Beef and Rice Skillet is a one-pan dish that combines ground beef, savory tomatoes, hearty rice, and mixed vegetables, all cooked together in a flavorful beef broth. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. With just 27 minutes of cooking time, you can serve up a delicious meal in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Beef and Rice Skillet is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor. The ground beef, vegetables, and rice come together in a savory, herbed broth, while the melted mozzarella adds a rich, cheesy finish. It’s a complete meal all in one pan, making cleanup easy and convenient. Plus, the combination of ingredients creates a balance of textures and flavors that will make this dish a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1/2 onion, diced

• 1 lb ground beef

• 15 oz can diced tomatoes

• 1 1/2 cups mixed veggies (peas and carrots)

• 3/4 cup white rice

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp garlic salt

• 1/2 tsp dried basil

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Beef:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Add the Ingredients:

1. Return the skillet to the stovetop and add the canned diced tomatoes, mixed veggies, rice, beef broth, oregano, garlic salt, basil, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a light boil.

Simmer:

1. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for about 17 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the broth. Stir occasionally to ensure the rice cooks evenly.

Add Cheese:

1. Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

2. Cover the skillet again for about 3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey.

Serve:

1. Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for extra color and flavor.

2. Serve the Italian Beef and Rice Skillet hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 22 minutes

• Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Add Extra Veggies: You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more vegetables and flavor.

• Use Ground Turkey: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.

• Add Spice: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

• Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your beef broth and other ingredients to confirm they are gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. You may need to add an extra 1/2 cup of beef broth and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of mixed veggies?

Yes, frozen peas and carrots work perfectly in this recipe. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours. Add the cheese just before serving.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any melting cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack as a substitute for mozzarella.

6. Can I use canned vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use canned vegetables, but make sure to drain them well before adding them to the skillet. Frozen veggies retain more texture.

7. Can I add more seasonings to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. A pinch of Italian seasoning or some fresh basil would be a great addition.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can omit the mozzarella cheese and use a dairy-free cheese alternative, or simply serve the dish without cheese for a dairy-free option.

Conclusion

Italian Beef and Rice Skillet is a simple yet flavorful one-pan meal that combines hearty ground beef, tender rice, and mixed vegetables in a savory broth. The addition of melted mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, cheesy finish that takes this dish to the next level. It’s quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and perfect for a family-friendly dinner. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!

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