It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You need a meal that is fast and filling. This Garlic Butter Beef Rice is your new secret weapon for busy nights.
This dish is cozy, warming, and perfect for a chilly winter evening. It delivers a huge protein boost without any extra stress. You can have it on the table in just 30 minutes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total game-changer for your weekly rotation. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. The bone broth adds amazing depth and extra nutrients to every bite.
Your kids will love the savory, buttery flavor of the rice. It is also budget-friendly since it uses ground beef. You get a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Simple Cooking Method
You will start by simmering your rice in rich bone broth. While that cooks, you brown your beef in a large skillet. Everything eventually comes together in one delicious pan for easy cleanup.
The garlic and butter create a silky sauce that coats everything. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this. It is completely foolproof and always turns out great.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These fresh ingredients come together to create a meal that feels truly special.
- 1 lb 90/10 lean ground beef
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 3 cups beef bone broth
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Step-by-Step Directions
- Combine rinsed rice and beef bone broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully rendered, breaking the meat into small granules.
- Drain approximately 75% of the rendered fat from the pan, leaving enough to coat the bottom.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the beef and sauté for 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the unsalted butter and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir continuously until the butter is completely melted and emulsified with the beef juices.
- Incorporate the cooked rice into the skillet. Use a folding motion to ensure the rice grains are evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm in deep bowls for the ultimate comfort. It pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli or a crisp side salad. The fresh greens balance the rich buttery flavors perfectly.
For a cozy winter night, serve it with a warm drink. It is a complete meal that keeps everyone satisfied. Pack any leftovers into containers for easy weekday lunches.
Storage & Reheating
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days. This recipe is excellent for meal prepping ahead of time.
To reheat, use a microwave or a small skillet. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Heat until steaming and the butter becomes creamy again.
Recipe Tips for Success
- Rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch first.
- Use fresh garlic instead of the jarred kind for better flavor.
- Do not overcook the garlic or it will turn bitter.
- Substitute bone broth with beef stock if you are in a pinch.
- Make the rice a day early to save even more time.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten the dish.
- Use a cast-iron skillet to get a better brown on the beef.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap the beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Stir in some frozen peas at the end for extra veggies.
- Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
Common Questions
Can I use water instead of bone broth?
You can use water, but bone broth adds much more flavor. It also provides extra protein and minerals for your family. If you use water, add a little extra salt.
Why is my rice sticky?
Sticky rice usually happens if it is not rinsed well. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear. This ensures fluffy grains that coat perfectly in the garlic butter.
I hope this warm and buttery meal brings a little extra joy to your dinner table tonight. It is the perfect way to refuel after a long day.
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1 lb 90/10 lean ground beef
- 2 cups long -grain white rice, rinsed
- 3 cups beef bone broth
- 6 cloves garlic , minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Instructions
- Combine rinsed rice and beef bone broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully rendered, breaking the meat into small granules.
- Drain approximately 75% of the rendered fat from the pan, leaving enough to coat the bottom.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the beef and sauté for 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the unsalted butter and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir continuously until the butter is completely melted and emulsified with the beef juices.
- Incorporate the cooked rice into the skillet. Use a folding motion to ensure the rice grains are evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.

