One Pot Beef And Tomato Rice

Name: One Pot Beef And Tomato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Cooking

I love making this One Pot Beef And Tomato Rice because it brings together all my favorite flavors in a simple, hearty dish. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender beef, vibrant tomatoes, and fluffy rice creates a delicious one-pot meal that my family enjoys. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the best part is that cleanup is a breeze. It's a win-win for everyone involved!

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:05:36.283Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how all the ingredients harmonized in just one pot. The secret is in browning the beef first, which adds layers of flavor that elevate the entire dish. I remember timidly adding just the right amount of spices and fresh herbs, which made it come alive!

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the beef for chicken or add extra vegetables depending on what’s in season. Experimenting with flavors each time keeps it exciting, making it a family favorite in our meal rotation.

Why You'll Love It
Rich, savory flavor that's incredibly satisfying
Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal

Ingredient Insights

The choice of ground beef is pivotal for achieving a rich and satisfying flavor in this dish. I typically opt for 80/20 ground beef, which has a good balance of fat and meat to keep the beef juicy while not making the dish overly greasy. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, but keep in mind that they will provide a different flavor profile.

Diced tomatoes are crucial for adding acidity and moisture to the beef and rice mixture. I recommend using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an enhanced depth of flavor, as the roasting process brings out a sweeter, caramelized taste that pairs wonderfully with the spices. If you’re looking for an extra kick, consider using diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef properly is essential for developing a complex flavor in this dish. Make sure to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, letting it sit undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring. This creates a nice brown crust. If the pot is overcrowded, the beef won’t brown properly; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that desirable color and flavor.

When it comes to simmering, covering the pot is key to trapping steam, which helps the rice cook evenly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time; if you notice the rice absorbing all the liquid before it’s fully tender, add a little more beef broth or water, and let it continue to cook, covered, for another 5-10 minutes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add the Ingredients

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy your hearty one-pot meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding your choice of vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. They can add extra nutrients and enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning accordingly!

Storage and Reheating

This One Pot Beef And Tomato Rice makes excellent leftovers! After it cools down, I recommend transferring it to an airtight container, where it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even more flavorful.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. The microwave is also an option; just be sure to cover the dish to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

I enjoy serving this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the heartiness of the beef and rice. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a splash of color and freshness, enhancing the overall experience.

For a twist, consider serving this dish as a burrito filling. Just spoon the beef and rice mixture into a tortilla with your favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, and salsa for a fun, portable meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and use additional liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, adding a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.