One-pan ground beef with rice and vegetables: An easy and quick meal for every day

There are days when you want something delicious, homemade, and filling… without filling the kitchen with pots and pans.

A dish that:
✔ comes together quickly
✔ uses ingredients you already have at home
✔ and is a hit with kids and adults alike

If you’re just starting to cook, this is one of the most foolproof dishes to get right on your first try.

Why choose ground beef

Ground beef is ideal for recipes like this because it:

• Has a rich flavor without being too heavy
• Cooks easily and quickly
• Pairs perfectly with rice and vegetables
• Is a good source of protein for the whole family

💡 Quick tip: Choose ground beef from the shoulder or chuck for a juicier result.

Ingredients (serves 3–4)

• 500 g ground beef
• 1 cup rice (Carolina or glase)
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 1 grated carrot
• 1 bell pepper (any kind you like)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups water or stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
• Salt & pepper
• A little parsley (optional)

 Step-by-step instructions

1. Start with the base
In a large frying pan or deep pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes, until softened.

2. Add the ground beef
Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon.
Cook until it changes color and the liquid has evaporated.

💡 Tip: Don’t stir it constantly — let it brown a little.

3. Add the vegetables
Add the carrot and bell pepper and let them soften for 3–4 minutes.

4. Add the rice
Add the rice and stir well for 1 minute so it blends with the other ingredients.

5. Add the liquid and simmer
Add the water or stock, tomato paste (if using), salt, and pepper. Lower the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, until the liquid has been absorbed.

6. The finishing touch
Once ready, let the dish rest for 5 minutes and add a little parsley.

Little secrets for a perfect result

• Don’t add too much water - you want the dish to be juicy, not soupy
• For a deeper flavor, use stock instead of water
• For a lighter version, you can also add zucchini
• If you like spices, try a little cumin or paprika

What to serve it with

• This is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:
• Fresh salad (tomato – cucumber – feta)
• Yogurt on the side
• A little lemon for freshness