Hey there, dinner enthusiasts!
Looking for a meal that’s both hearty and super satisfying? You’re in for a treat!
Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for ground beef over rice.
It’s quick, filling, and packed with flavor.
Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze!
Let’s dive in and whip this up together!
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Ground beef can be replaced with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives like crumbled tempeh or textured vegetable protein (TVP). These options offer different nutritional profiles and accommodate various dietary preferences. Adjust cooking times slightly, as leaner meats may cook faster.
Brown sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or stevia for those watching their sugar intake. Use slightly less coconut sugar, as it’s sweeter than brown sugar. For sugar-free alternatives, follow package instructions for equivalent sweetness.
White rice can be swapped with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for added nutrients or lower carb options. Brown rice and quinoa require longer cooking times and may need additional liquid. Cauliflower rice cooks quickly and can be prepared in a skillet or microwave. Adjust serving sizes accordingly, as these alternatives have different volumes when cooked.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25-35 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1500-1700
- Protein: 100-120 g
- Fat: 80-90 g
- Carbohydrates: 150-170 g
Ingredients
For the main dish:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil like canola)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced for best flavor)
- 1 tbsp grated ginger (freshly grated is best)
- 1.25 lb ground beef
- 4 cups cooked rice
For the sauce:
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (I use Kikkoman brand)
- 2 tsp sesame oil (for a nutty aroma)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
For the garnish:
- 4 green onions (sliced thin)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Begin by making the sauce.
In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and red chili flakes.
Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved into the liquid and the ingredients are well combined.
Set the sauce aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add minced ginger and garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Increase the heat to high and add the ground beef.
Cook the beef, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula or wooden spoon, until it is no longer pink.
This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is cooked, drain the excess grease from the skillet.
Step 3: Combine Beef with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked ground beef in the skillet.
Add half of the chopped green onions to the mixture.
Let this simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Serve the flavorful beef mixture over hot rice.
Garnish with the remaining green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
