Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet

Name: Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 tbsp garlic butter; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Inspirations

I love whipping up quick and satisfying meals, and this Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet has quickly become a family favorite. With rich flavors and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of garlic butter and beef creates a mouthwatering dish that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice. I enjoy using quality ingredients to enhance the flavor, and adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end makes all the difference. Try it out, and I bet it will become a staple in your home as well!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:37:36.358Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was amazed at how easy it was to create something so delicious. The stars of the show are definitely the garlic and butter, which infuse the beef with an incredible depth of flavor. I remember the first time my family gathered around the table, and everyone immediately dove into the skillet; it was a memorable moment filled with smiles and satisfied bellies.

One key tip I've learned is to let the beef get a nice sear before adding the rice. This not only intensifies the flavor but also gives the dish an appealing texture. I love how this recipe allows for adjustments based on what I have on hand. Feel free to throw in some vegetables for added nutrition, and enjoy this comforting meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that elevates ground beef
Creamy buttery texture paired with tender rice
Quick one-pan meal ideal for weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Flavor

The key to achieving that rich, garlic flavor is using quality garlic butter. Look for a brand that uses real butter and fresh garlic, as this will enhance the overall taste of the dish. If you prefer to make your own, simple melt unsalted butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant and golden. This infusion will bring a deeper flavor profile to the dish, making every mouthful a delicious experience.

When cooking the ground beef, make sure to crumble it finely as it browns, allowing the garlic butter to coat each piece evenly. This step is crucial because it ensures that the beef absorbs the flavor of the garlic butter and doesn’t clump together. If you notice it sticking to the pan, using a bit more garlic butter or beef broth can help deglaze the bottom and incorporate those flavorful brown bits.

Techniques for Fluffy Rice

Achieving perfectly cooked rice can sometimes be tricky, but using the right technique in this recipe ensures a fluffy texture. Start by rinsing the rice in cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming gummy during cooking. After rinsing, allow the rice to drain for about five minutes before adding it to the skillet.

When you add the rice to the skillet, it’s essential to stir it gently but thoroughly with the beef and broth. This mixing allows the rice to soak up the flavors from the beef and garlic butter right from the start. Once you bring the mixture to a boil and reduce to a simmer, resist the urge to lift the lid too often; doing so can cause steam to escape and affect the rice’s ability to cook evenly.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Garlic Butter Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is versatile when it comes to serving. For a complete meal, it pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give it a little kick, enhancing both flavor and warmth.

As for leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of beef broth or water when warming up in the microwave or on the stovetop; this prevents the rice from drying out. If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the beef and rice separately, then combine them right before serving to preserve the textures.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
3 tbsp garlic butter
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

These ingredients will come together to create a hearty dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Garlic Butter Ground Beef And Rice Skillet:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the garlic butter and allow it to melt. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice and pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Serve

Once the rice is cooked, fluff the mixture with a fork. Adjust seasonings if necessary, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Your delicious meal is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider throwing in some vegetables like peas or bell peppers during the cooking process. They not only enhance the dish's taste but also add color and nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up the dish, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for the beef. These leaner meats still absorb the garlic butter flavor well and provide a satisfying meal without the extra fat. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as ground turkey may brown quicker than beef.

For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based ground meat substitutes or lentils. Lentils are an excellent source of protein and work well with the garlic butter, providing a hearty texture. Just make sure to reduce the beef broth accordingly, as lentils will absorb liquid differently than rice.

Storing and Freezing

When storing leftovers, ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. This prevents excess moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage. The dish can be kept in the fridge for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

If you choose to freeze it, portion the meal into single-serving containers for easy reheating. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating tips mentioned earlier. This method maintains the dish's texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy a quick and delicious meal anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid used. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a substitute for garlic butter?

You can use regular butter and add minced garlic to it. Just sauté the garlic briefly before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This meal is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple salad or some crispy bread for a complete dinner.