Beef and Rice Skillet with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
Ingredients
- 1 poundground beef
- 1½ cupslong-grain white rice
- 2yellow onion
- 3 clovesgarlic
- 3 cupsbeef broth
- 2 tablespoonsbutter
- ·fresh thyme
- 1bay leaf
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
Prep
- 01
Slice 2 yellow onions into thin rings.
- 02
Mince 3 cloves garlic.
Method
- 01
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Transfer beef to a plate.
- 02
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the caramelized onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and very soft, about 12-15 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- 03
Return the beef to the skillet. Stir in the rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring often.
- 04
Pour in the beef broth, add the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- 05
Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes. Discard bay leaf and thyme stems, fluff with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Spice Tips
For a warm earthiness, add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika when you stir in the rice. For gentle heat, finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes. A splash of Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon) adds subtle savory depth.
This is naturally freezer-friendly — cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.