One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe
If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting meal that comes together in just one pan, then you simply have to try this One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe. It marries smoky paprika and a touch of heat with the mellow sweetness of honey, all enveloping tender ground beef and perfectly cooked rice. This dish is incredibly satisfying, coming together effortlessly for a weeknight dinner that feels special yet uncomplicated. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a go-to that you’ll want to share with friends and family over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch in both flavor and comfort. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s building complexity with spices, adding moisture and sweetness, or contributing vibrant color and texture to the dish.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty protein base that makes the dish filling and satisfying.
- Uncooked rice (1 cup): Jasmine or long-grain rice works beautifully, absorbing all the rich flavors.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Adds depth and richness while cooking the rice perfectly.
- Small onion, diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation for the flavors.
- Red bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness, crunch, and a pop of vibrant color.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Brings that unmistakable aroma and savory bite.
- Honey (2 tbsp): Introduces a subtle sweetness that balances smoky and spicy notes.
- Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Deepens the savory base with a hint of tangy richness.
- Smoked paprika (1 tbsp): The star smoky spice that gives the dish its signature flavor.
- Chili powder (1 tsp): Adds gentle warmth and complexity.
- Cumin (½ tsp): Infuses a warm, earthy undertone.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Enhances the allium flavor, complementing the fresh onions.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ tsp, optional): For those who love a little kick, this adds a spicy edge.
- Soy sauce (2 tbsp): Balances sweetness with umami and a subtle salty depth.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing and creating that perfect base for the aromatics.
How to Make One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic, allowing them to cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until they’ve softened and released their wonderful aroma. This step builds the foundation of the dish’s flavor, turning simple veggies into a fragrant and flavorful base.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly until browned, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even texture. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat afterward to keep the dish from becoming greasy but still rich and flavorful.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re opting for extra spice. Stir in the tomato paste as well. Cook this mixture for about one minute, allowing the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to develop its deep, savory taste—this is where the magic really starts to happen!
Step 4: Mix in the Rice
Pour the uncooked rice into the skillet and stir, making sure every grain is nicely coated with the spicy mixture. This step ensures that your rice will absorb all those bold flavors later on, rather than being a plain backdrop.
Step 5: Simmer with Broth, Honey, and Soy Sauce
Now it’s time to add the beef broth, honey, and soy sauce. Bring everything up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking lets the rice absorb the flavorful liquid while becoming tender and fluffy—the heart of the One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
Once the rice is cooked through and all the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. This resting period allows the steam to finish the cooking process for a perfectly tender and cohesive dish.
How to Serve One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe to something truly special. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley to add brightness. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can balance the smoky heat with creamy coolness, and a squeeze of fresh lime adds just the right zing.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Crispy roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad can add texture and contrast. For a more indulgent touch, cornbread or warm tortillas provide a comforting way to scoop up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve the beef and rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or atop crispy tortilla chips for a chili-inspired nacho twist. You can also turn any leftovers into stuffed burritos or use them as filling for savory hand pies. The One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe is versatile and lends itself well to creative plating and repurposing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen when rested, making it a convenient and delicious option for next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep the goodness longer, this recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, then freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if needed. You can also microwave portions covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Stir occasionally for even warming and serve hot.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, although the beef broth and seasoning might need adjustments to maintain that signature smoky richness.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The smoky and honey flavors will still come through beautifully.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh jalapeños during the sauté step to dial up the heat. Just adjust according to your spice tolerance!
What type of rice works best?
Jasmine or long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors nicely. Avoid risotto or instant rice as the texture and cooking time differ significantly.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it entirely in advance, then reheat portions during the week. The flavors often taste even better the next day.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a warm, hearty, and delicious meal that’s fuss-free and packed with flavor, the One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe is an absolute must-try. It shows how a handful of simple ingredients, cooked with love and care, can become a beloved dish that satisfies week after week. Grab your skillet, get cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite with the people you love!
Print
One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef is a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that combines ground beef, aromatic spices, and tender rice all cooked together in one pan. The smoky paprika and chili powder bring a delightful kick balanced with a touch of sweetness from honey. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that offers comforting depth and rich textures with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice (jasmine or long-grain)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Sauces
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until well browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add seasonings: Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and tomato paste. Cook for about 1 minute to let the spices become aromatic and the tomato paste to slightly caramelize.
- Mix in the rice: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir thoroughly to coat the rice grains evenly with the spice mixture and beef.
- Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, honey, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Fluff and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, smoky chili beef and rice skillet.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use low-sodium beef broth and reduced-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
- Ensure the rice is fully cooked and all liquid is absorbed before fluffing; if still undercooked, add a splash more broth and cook for a few more minutes.
- This dish reheats well and is great for leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
