Name: Italian Beef and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

A hearty and comforting dish, Italian Beef and Rice brings together savory ground beef, tender long-grain rice, and a blend of classic Italian herbs all simmered in a rich tomato base. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when I need something warm and satisfying without too much fuss.

Ingredients

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

1 lb ground beef

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups beef broth

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.

I add the diced onion and garlic, cooking them for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Then, I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. I drain the excess fat if needed.

I stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Then I bring everything to a gentle simmer.

I add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. I reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

After removing it from the heat, I stir in the grated Parmesan and let it rest for 5 minutes.

I garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 375 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

For a spicier dish, I add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

I like to stir in chopped spinach or kale for added greens.

To make it extra cheesy, I mix in shredded mozzarella along with the Parmesan.

For a stovetop casserole feel, I top it with breadcrumbs and place it under the broiler for a few minutes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I add a splash of beef broth or water and warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—I just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from sticking or burning?

I make sure to keep the heat low and use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Stirring before covering also helps distribute everything evenly.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but I increase the cooking time and add more broth since brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid.

What can I serve with Italian Beef and Rice?

I like to pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I cook it fully and store it in the fridge. It reheats beautifully and the flavors deepen overnight.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I use gluten-free beef broth and double-check all labels, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Italian Beef and Rice is my go-to when I want something easy, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and always a hit at the dinner table. The rich tomato and herb base combined with savory beef and rice makes for a satisfying and comforting meal I keep coming back to.

Recipe:

Italian Beef and Rice

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting one-pot dish, Italian Beef and Rice combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and classic Italian herbs in a rich tomato base—perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add diced onion and garlic, and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the rice and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat, stir in grated Parmesan, and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.