Hearty Meatballs and Rice Recipe (One Skillet) – Dinner Made Simple!

Savory meatballs paired with fluffy rice create a comforting and hearty meal that delights families everywhere.

Home cooks appreciate the simplicity of preparing a delicious dinner in just one skillet, minimizing kitchen cleanup and maximizing flavor.

This classic combination combines tender, seasoned meat with perfectly cooked grains, offering a satisfying and balanced plate.

Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines have long celebrated the art of crafting delectable meatballs with aromatic spices and herbs.

The one-skillet approach transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that can be prepared quickly and easily.

Families and food enthusiasts will find this recipe both practical and incredibly delicious, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.

Why You’ll Love Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet)

• Quickly Prep One-Pan Meal: Designed for busy home cooks who want delicious dinner without multiple dishes to clean afterward. Minimal effort transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
• Effortless Cooking Technique: Single skillet preparation means less cleanup and streamlined cooking process. Combine meatballs, rice, and vegetables in one pan, reducing kitchen time and complexity.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Packed with kid-approved flavors and easy-to-eat components that appeal to all ages. Customizable with optional herbs and vegetables for added nutrition and personal touch.
• Versatile Weeknight Solution: Adaptable recipe works perfectly for quick dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. Frozen meatballs and pantry staples make this a go-to meal when time is tight and hunger is high.

Items You Need For Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet)

• Meatballs: Classic protein foundation for the dish, can be homemade or store-bought frozen variety.
• Beef Broth: Provides rich flavor and cooking liquid for rice and meatballs.

• Olive Oil: Creates smooth cooking surface and adds subtle flavor.
• Garlic, Minced: Adds deep, warm aromatic base to the entire dish.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances overall garlic profile and seasoning.

• Rice: Hearty base that absorbs all the delicious cooking liquids.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and enhancing overall taste.

• Frozen Peas: Quick-cooking vegetable that adds color and light sweetness.
• Green Onions, Parsley: Fresh herbs for brightness and final flavor boost.

Making Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet)

Step 1: Warm Up Meatballs

Gently defrost frozen meatballs in the microwave for a quick start.

Step 2: Sizzle and Shine

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle olive oil.

Step 3: Awaken the Garlic

Toss minced garlic into the skillet, stirring until fragrant and golden.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally to create a beautiful golden crust.

Step 5: Build the Flavor Base

• Beef broth
• Uncooked rice
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer and Soften

Bring mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low.

Cover skillet and let simmer, allowing rice to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Stir once around the 15-minute mark to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove from heat when rice is tender and liquid is completely absorbed.

Step 8: Green Up the Dish

• Frozen peas
• Chopped green onions
• Fresh parsley

Cover skillet for a few minutes to warm the peas.

Step 9: Serve with Flair

Plate your one-skillet masterpiece alongside a crisp green salad or fresh spinach.

Enjoy your comforting and quick meal!

Tips For Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet)

• Prep Perfectly: Slightly thaw frozen meatballs in the microwave to ensure even cooking and prevent cold centers.
• Quick Sizzle Technique: Sauté garlic first to release its aromatic flavors and create a rich base for your one-skillet meal.
• Prevent Rice Sticking: Stir the rice mixture at the 15-minute mark to avoid burning and ensure uniform cooking throughout the dish.
• Green Boost Strategy: Add frozen peas and fresh herbs at the end to maintain their vibrant color and maximize nutritional value.
• Customize Your Comfort: Serve over spinach or with a fresh salad to add extra nutrients and create a well-balanced meal that suits different dietary preferences.

Storing Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet) Right

• Refrigerate: Store leftover meatballs and rice in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freeze: Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze up to 2 months for best quality and taste.
• Reheat Skillet: Warm meatballs and rice over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated through completely.
• Microwave Option: Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.

What Pairs With Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet)

• Robust Red Wine Pairing: Choose a medium-bodied Chianti or Merlot to complement the rich, savory meatballs and enhance the meaty depth.
• Fresh Green Salad Sidekick: Toss a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness and provide a zesty, refreshing contrast.
• Herbal Garnish Boost: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley and green onions for a bright, fresh finish that adds color and subtle onion-herb notes.
• Creamy Yogurt Drizzle: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt with a dash of garlic powder to create a cool, tangy sauce that balances the warm, hearty meatball rice dish.

Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet) Flavor Twists

• Vegetarian Meatball Swap: Replace meat meatballs with plant-based alternatives like lentil, chickpea, or tofu balls for a protein-packed vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free rice and swap regular meatballs for gluten-free varieties, ensuring all ingredients meet gluten-free standards.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice and select lean turkey or chicken meatballs to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Mediterranean Style: Add crumbled feta cheese, diced cucumber, and kalamata olives to transform the dish with Mediterranean flavors and textures.

FAQs About Meatballs And Rice Recipe (One Skillet)

• Can I use different types of rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can use long-grain white rice, brown rice, or basmati rice. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as different rice varieties may require slightly different liquid ratios and cooking times.

• Is it okay to use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work great in this recipe. Just ensure they’re pre-cooked or nearly cooked before adding them to the skillet to maintain the right cooking time and texture.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While this specific recipe is meat-based, you could substitute meatballs with plant-based meatballs or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking liquid and seasonings as needed.

• What if I don't have beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with an extra pinch of seasoning. Each will slightly alter the flavor profile but still produce a delicious one-skillet meal.

Sizzling Meatballs and Rice Recipe (One Skillet)

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Meatballs and Rice blends Italian-inspired comfort with easy one-skillet convenience, promising a satisfying meal that delights with rich flavors and minimal cleanup. Families seeking a quick, delicious dinner will savor this streamlined culinary experience that brings warmth and joy to the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Protein:

• 1 pound homemade or store-bought meatballs

Rice and Grains:

• 1 ½ cups uncooked rice, rinsed

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)

Liquid:

• 3 cups beef broth

Vegetables:

• 1 ½ cups frozen peas (adjust to preference)
• ½ cup green onions, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Cooking Fat:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Slightly defrost frozen meatballs in the microwave if using pre-made variety.
2. Select a spacious skillet with high sides and warm olive oil over medium-high temperature.
3. Infuse the pan with minced garlic, releasing its aromatic essence for approximately one minute.
4. Carefully introduce meatballs, allowing them to develop a golden-brown exterior by searing for 2-3 minutes.
5. Cascade beef broth into the skillet, then gently fold in uncooked rice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring thorough integration.
6. Elevate the mixture to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat to its lowest setting, covering the skillet to create a steamy environment.
7. Allow the rice to simmer undisturbed for 15-20 minutes, performing a single mid-cooking stir to prevent potential sticking.
8. Verify rice tenderness and complete liquid absorption, then remove from heat source and fine-tune seasoning as desired.
9. Incorporate frozen peas, freshly chopped green onions, and optional parsley, covering momentarily to gently warm the vegetables.
10. Present the one-skillet meal piping hot, complemented by a crisp green salad or nestled atop a bed of vibrant spinach for added nutritional complexity.

Notes

• Optimize meatball thawing by using short microwave bursts to prevent partial cooking and ensure even heating.
• Maximize flavor development by allowing garlic to sizzle briefly before adding meatballs, releasing its aromatic compounds.
• Create flexibility for dietary needs by substituting beef broth with vegetable broth for vegetarian adaptation or using cauliflower rice for low-carb option.
• Prevent rice sticking by gently stir

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 57 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg