Beef with Creamy Rice is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender beef with creamy, flavorful rice in a savory sauce. This dish brings together the rich flavors of beef, the smoothness of cream, and the subtle aroma of garlic and herbs to create a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a filling dinner that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family. Whether served with a side salad or on its own, this meal is a cozy, filling favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef with Creamy Rice recipe is the epitome of comfort food. The tender, succulent beef paired with creamy rice creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich and flavorful sauce envelops both the beef and rice, making every bite melt in your mouth. It’s a one-pot meal that’s simple to prepare, and it’s great for meal prepping or serving for a family dinner. The combination of beef and creaminess is always a winner, making it an irresistible dish that everyone will love.

Beef with Creamy Rice

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or stew beef, diced into bite-sized pieces)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup long-grain white rice (or your preferred rice)
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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

Directions

Cook the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or diced stew beef) and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon if using ground beef. If using stew beef, cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
Cook the rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion and garlic. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes to bring out its flavor.
Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, soy sauce (if using), thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the rice: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If using stew beef, make sure the beef is cooked through. If necessary, add a little more broth or water during the cooking process to prevent the rice from drying out.
Finish the dish: Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir it into the rice mixture. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors and heat everything through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 40 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: Stir in vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Use different meat: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version.
Make it creamy with cheese: For a cheesier dish, stir in some shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan) when the rice is done cooking for an extra creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth amount and cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings, as poultry is milder in flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe with a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic in the pot, then add the rice, broth, and cream. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free broth for a completely dairy-free version.

5. Can I add mushrooms to this dish?

Yes, mushrooms would be a great addition! Add them when sautéing the onions and garlic, and cook until they’re softened before continuing with the recipe.

6. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer, but beef broth will add the most depth of flavor to the dish.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicier kick, add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños when cooking the onions and garlic. You can also use a spicier variety of pepper or seasonings.

8. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, this dish can be made in advance. Simply store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a little extra broth or cream when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

9. Can I substitute the rice with quinoa or couscous?

Yes, quinoa or couscous can be used as a substitute for rice, though you will need to adjust the cooking liquid and time based on the grain you choose.

10. How can I make this recipe lighter?

To make the dish lighter, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, swap the heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half, or use less oil for cooking. You can also add extra vegetables to bulk up the dish without extra calories.

Conclusion

Beef with Creamy Rice is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, creamy rice, and a rich sauce, it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to make ahead, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors, making it the perfect dish to cozy up with at any time of year.