Most ground beef recipes feel predictable. Same skillet. Same flavors. Same plate.
But when you turn that seasoned beef into something structured, crispy, and handheld like my beef
cone, everything changes. It is not just dinner anymore. It becomes something people talk about. This recipe builds that same rich, deeply seasoned beef base that makes beef cones so addictive. Savory. Bold. Comforting. And incredibly versatile.
This is not just another one pot beef recipe. It is a flavor base that works across multiple meals. The same seasoned beef that fills rice skillets can become a crispy cone filling, stuffed wraps, loaded flat breads, or even baked tortilla cups. When you build the flavor correctly at the base, the possibilities multiply. If you have already tried my crispy Beef Cones, you know the magic is in the filling. It starts with properly sauteed onions, balanced spices, and beef cooked until deeply browned. That foundation is exactly what makes both recipes work so well.
Today’s version turns that bold beef base into a complete one pot dinner. Rice absorbs all the spices. Vegetables add color and texture. Every spoonful delivers layered flavor without complicated steps.
Simple ingredients. Strong flavor. Smart cooking.
Why This Beef and Rice Base Works So Well
This recipe is built on simple technique. Browning the beef properly builds depth. Cooking onions until soft adds sweetness. Seasoning at the right moment layers flavor instead of masking it. When rice simmers in the same skillet, it absorbs everything.
What to Serve With One Pot Beef and Rice
This one pot beef and rice is satisfying on its own, but a simple addition can elevate it even more. A drizzle of Beef Cone Sauce adds a smooth, savory finish that balances the warm spices in the dish.
If you enjoy creative handheld meals, you can also turn this seasoned beef mixture into something fun like Air Fryer Pizza Cones. They offer a crispy exterior with a flavorful filling, making them perfect for parties or casual dinners.
For a lighter option, serve this skillet with a fresh green salad or sliced cucumbers on the side to add contrast and texture.
Recipe Time
- Prep Time 10 minutes
- Cook Time 25 minutes
- Total Time 35 minutes
- Servings 6 servings
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1½ lb |
| Frozen peas and carrots | 2 cups |
| Long-grain white rice, rinsed | 2¾ cups |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Medium onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 |
| Ground ginger | ½ tablespoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground cloves | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Beef broth | 4 cups |
How to Make One Pot Spiced Beef and Rice
Step 1: Saute the Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until soft and lightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef directly into the pan. Let it sear for a minute before breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Cook until the beef is fully browned with no pink remaining. Stir occasionally to crumble the meat evenly.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Spices
Stir in frozen peas and diced carrots. Add cumin, paprika, cinnamon, curry powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Add the rinsed rice into the skillet and gently mix it into the beef and vegetables so everything is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Pour in the Broth
Pour in enough beef broth to cover the rice by about 1 inch. Add bay leaves and bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 7: Cover and Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 12 to 14 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
Step 8: Fluff and Serve
Remove the bay leaves. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve warm straight from the skillet.
Tips for Perfect One Pot Beef and Rice
Cooking everything in one skillet is simple, but a few small details make a big difference. Let the beef brown properly before stirring too much. This builds deeper flavor. Rinse the rice well so it cooks fluffy instead of sticky. Keep the lid on while simmering so the steam finishes cooking the grains evenly. Let the dish rest for five minutes before fluffing to prevent mushy texture.
Easy Ways to Customize This Recipe
This dish is flexible and easy to adjust. Add chili flakes for heat. Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a richer finish. Swap ground beef for turkey if you prefer a lighter option. You can even use this seasoned beef mixture as a filling for Crispy Beef Cones if you want something handheld and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes. Brown rice works well but requires more liquid and extra cooking time. Add about half a cup more broth and simmer longer until tender.
Why did my rice turn mushy?
This usually happens when there is too much liquid or the lid is lifted during cooking. Keep the skillet covered and let the rice rest before fluffing.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I freeze one pot beef and rice?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely before freezing. Store for up to two months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes. Frozen peas and carrots can be added directly to the skillet without thawing.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. This dish also freezes well for up to two months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
Food Safety Note
Always ensure your air fryer reaches the proper temperature before cooking. Pizza cones should be cooked until the cheese is fully melted and the tortillas are golden and crisp. If using meat toppings such as ground beef or sausage, make sure they are fully cooked before filling the cones. For general food safety guidelines, visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service .
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | 520 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 640 mg |
Recipe Disclaimer
This recipe is provided for informational purposes only. Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on your air fryer model and kitchen equipment. Always use your best judgment when preparing food and ensure ingredients are cooked safely. Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the exact products used. For full details, please review our full disclaimer policy .
One Pot Spiced Beef and Rice
Ingredients
- 1½ lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
- 2¾ cups long grain white rice, rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly.
- Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in peas, carrots, and all spices. Mix well.
- Add rinsed rice and stir to combine evenly.
- Pour in beef broth until rice is covered by about one inch. Add bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 14 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves, fluff gently, and serve warm.
Krish Shrestha
I’m Krish Shrestha, the creator of Krivia Recipes. I share practical, ingredient-focused recipes made with simple ingredients and clear step-by-step instructions designed for real kitchens and everyday home cooking.
