One-Skillet Meatballs and Rice: A Cozy Family Dinner Solution

This hearty one-skillet meatballs and rice recipe combines the comfort of homestyle cooking with the convenience of a single-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings together tender meatballs, fluffy rice, and bright vegetables in a savory blend that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Main Components:

  • 1 pound (450g) homemade or store-bought meatballs
  • 1½ cups (300g) uncooked rice, rinsed
  • 3 cups (710ml) beef broth
  • 1½ cups (225g) frozen peas
  • 2 teaspoons (10ml) olive oil

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 3 cloves garlic (9g), crushed and minced
  • ½ teaspoon (2g) garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5g) kosher salt

Fresh Herbs and Garnishes:

  • ½ cup (50g) green onions, chopped
  • ¼ cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs (5 minutes)
  • If using frozen meatballs, thaw in microwave
  • They don’t need to be completely thawed
  • Set aside while preparing other ingredients
  1. Start the Base (3-4 minutes)
  • Heat high-sided skillet over medium-high heat
  • Add olive oil and wait for it to shimmer
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant
  • Be careful not to burn the garlic
  1. Cook the Meatballs (2-3 minutes)
  • Add meatballs to the skillet
  • Brown lightly on all sides
  • They will continue cooking with the rice
  1. Combine Rice and Liquid (5 minutes)
  • Add beef broth to the skillet
  • Stir in rinsed rice
  • Add garlic powder, pepper, and salt
  • Scrape bottom of pan to release browned bits
  • Bring mixture to a boil
  1. Simmer the Dish (15-20 minutes)
  • Reduce heat to low
  • Cover skillet with lid
  • Simmer for 15-20 minutes
  • Check at 15 minutes to prevent sticking
  • Rice should be tender and liquid absorbed
  1. Finish and Serve (5 minutes)
  • Remove from heat
  • Adjust seasoning to taste
  • Stir in frozen peas
  • Add green onions and parsley
  • Cover until peas are heated through

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 425
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Serving size: 1/6 of recipe

Timing:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Professional Cooking Tips

  1. Rice Preparation:
  • Rinse rice until water runs clear
  • Use proper liquid-to-rice ratio
  • Don’t lift lid while cooking
  1. Meatball Selection:
  • Choose meatballs sized 1-1.5 inches
  • Ensure even sizing for consistent cooking
  • Italian-style or basic beef both work well
  1. Pan Selection:
  • Use heavy-bottomed skillet
  • Ensure lid fits tightly
  • 12-inch diameter minimum recommended

Variations and Substitutions

  1. Rice Options:
  • Brown rice (adjust cooking time)
  • Jasmine rice
  • Basmati rice
  1. Vegetable Variations:
  • Mixed frozen vegetables
  • Baby spinach
  • Diced carrots
  • Sweet corn
  1. Broth Alternatives:
  • Chicken broth
  • Vegetable broth
  • Low-sodium options

Common FAQs

Q: Can I use homemade meatballs?
A: Yes, pre-cook them slightly before adding to ensure food safety.

Q: Why is my rice still crunchy?
A: Add ¼ cup more hot broth and continue cooking covered for 5 minutes.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, but rice may become softer. Reheat with a splash of broth.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, freeze for up to 3 months in airtight container.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage:

  • Refrigerate in airtight container for 3-4 days
  • Keep garnishes separate
  • Store rice and meatballs together

Make-Ahead Options:

  • Prep meatballs in advance
  • Chop garnishes day before
  • Pre-measure dry ingredients

Reheating Instructions:

  • Microwave: 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway
  • Stovetop: Low heat with splash of broth
  • Add fresh herbs after reheating

This versatile one-pan meal is perfect for busy families and can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The leftovers make excellent lunch portions and can be enhanced with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil when serving.