Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Meatballs and Rice recipe is a comforting one-skillet meal that brings together juicy, seasoned meatballs with fluffy rice simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, easy to clean up, and full of savory flavor. One pan does it all—protein, starch, and sauce—in one delicious dish.

ingredients

Meatballs and Rice Recipe (One Skillet) 10 This Meatballs and Rice recipe is a comforting one-skillet meal that brings together juicy, seasoned meatballs with fluffy rice simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. It's perfect for busy weeknights, easy to clean up, and full of savory flavor. One pan does it all—protein, starch, and sauce—in one delicious dish.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefbread crumbsparmesan cheeseminced garliconion (finely chopped)eggssaltblack pepperdried oreganoolive oiluncooked white ricebeef brothtomato sauceparsley (for garnish)

directions

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan, garlic, onion, eggs, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides (they do not need to be fully cooked). Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add uncooked rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until slightly toasted.

Add beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.

Return meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and meatballs are cooked through.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Add chopped bell peppers or peas for extra veggies and color.

Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce in the sauce.

Swap tomato sauce with a creamy mushroom sauce for a different twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice.
Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time—adjust accordingly.

Do I need to cook the rice before adding?

No, the rice cooks directly in the skillet with the sauce and meatballs.

What can I use instead of bread crumbs?

Crushed crackers, oats, or cooked rice can work as alternatives.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store the dish in the fridge, then reheat before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread crumbs and check labels on broth and sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I add cheese on top?

Absolutely! Sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan over the dish and broil for a few minutes for a cheesy finish.

Conclusion

Meatballs and Rice in one skillet is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s simple to make and easy to love. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a flavorful, filling option that doesn’t require a sink full of dishes. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked goodness all in one pan.