Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet

Name: Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Warm Family Favorites

I absolutely love making this Garlic Butter Ground Beef and Rice Skillet when I'm short on time but craving a hearty meal. It's quick to prepare and loaded with delicious flavors that remind me of home. The combination of garlic butter and ground beef creates a rich base for the rice, infusing it with a savory goodness that is simply irresistible. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. This dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:41:37.113Z

From the moment I first tried this dish, I was hooked. The fragrant aroma of garlic infused with warm butter fills the kitchen as it cooks, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste even before it's fully done. I’ve experimented with various spices and additional vegetables, but found that keeping it simple allows the core flavors to shine through.

This one-skillet wonder is perfect for busy weeknights. I always keep a supply of ground beef and rice on hand, allowing me to whip up this comforting dish whenever I need a quick meal. Plus, it’s so satisfying and filling!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor combined with buttery ground beef
One skillet means less cleanup time
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting Your Ground Beef

For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground beef with a fat content between 80/20 and 85/15. This balance ensures that your meat remains juicy while providing enough fat to create a rich sauce. When browning the beef, allow it to sit undisturbed for the first couple of minutes to develop a nice caramelization before breaking it apart. This golden color adds depth to the dish that enhances the overall flavor.

If you're looking to reduce the fat content, ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in as lighter alternatives. Just remember that these lean meats may require careful monitoring, as they can dry out more easily. To combat this, consider adding a splash of broth or extra butter during cooking to maintain moisture and richness.

Mastering the Rice

Using long-grain rice is essential for this recipe as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Before adding it to the skillet, a simple rinse under cold water can remove excess starch, preventing any clumping during cooking. This small step ensures your rice comes out light and fluffy with each grain well-separated.

For added flavor, consider using homemade beef broth if you have it on hand. It deepens the umami taste of the dish significantly. If you're in a pinch, feel free to use low-sodium canned broth or even water mixed with a bouillon cube—just remember to adjust seasoning according to your broth's saltiness.

Garnishes and Serving Suggestions

Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a fresh note to your Garlic Butter Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, but don't limit yourself to just that! Try topping the dish with sliced green onions for a crisp touch or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. If you love a kick, a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce can elevate the dish remarkably.

This skillet meal is versatile enough to be served on its own or paired with a side salad for a complete dinner. To make leftovers even more enjoyable, consider reheating them in a skillet with a splash of broth over medium heat to rejuvenate the rice's texture and prevent it from becoming dry or sticky.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup long-grain rice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned.

Add Broth and Rice

Once the beef is cooked through, drain excess grease. Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a boil. Stir in the rice, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Finish and Serve

After the rice has cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining butter until melted. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or peas during the cooking process.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Garlic Butter Ground Beef and Rice Skillet can easily be made ahead of time. Cook the ground beef and prepare the rice, then let them cool completely before storing them separately in airtight containers. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the skillet with a little beef broth to restore moisture and warmth, keeping the flavors intact.

Freezing this dish is also an excellent option. Allow it to cool, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. Label with the date and consume within 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetables in this recipe. Adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas can not only boost nutrition but also introduce delightful crunch and color. Sauté them along with the garlic in the first step to integrate their flavors into the beef and rice.

For a different twist, consider incorporating Asian-inspired flavors by adding soy sauce and ginger instead of typical seasonings. This variation can be particularly appealing if you're aiming for an umami-packed experience. Just make sure to adjust the salt accordingly, as soy sauce is inherently salty.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your rice is undercooked at the end of the simmering time, it may require a few extra minutes on the heat. Simply add a bit more broth or water, cover, and allow it to steam. This should fully cook the rice without compromising flavor. Be sure to check it periodically to avoid overcooking.

Another common issue might be greasy beef. If you notice excess grease, carefully drain it off after browning the meat to prevent the dish from becoming overly oily. This simple step can help achieve a balanced texture and taste in your final dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What's a good side dish to serve with this?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would pair nicely with this dish.