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
Scale
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
