Super easy meal prep! Ground beef and rice. 20 min preparation
Super easy meal prep! Ground beef and rice. 20 min preparation is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 410 calories per serving. Recipe by Adam Korman on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 30 min
Cost: $13.52 total, $2.25 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef (80% lean, trimmed of excess fat)
- 2 cups White Long‑Grain Rice (Uncooked; rinse before cooking)
- 4 cups Water (For cooking rice)
- 1 medium Onion (Finely diced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground if possible)
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (optional) (Adds umami; can omit for gluten‑free version)
Instructions
Prep Ingredients
Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the rice and water.
Time: PT5M
Cook Rice
Combine rice and water in a saucepan, add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12‑15 minutes until water is absorbed.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: Medium‑low heat
Brown Ground Beef
Heat the skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, break it up with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 6‑8 minutes. Add the onion and garlic halfway through, season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: Medium heat
Combine & Portion
Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then divide it evenly into six meal‑prep containers. Top each portion with an equal amount of seasoned ground beef.
Time: PT2M
Clean Up
Wash all used utensils, wipe down the stovetop, and store leftovers properly.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 410
- Protein
- 22 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: High protein, Gluten‑free (omit soy sauce or use tamari), Dairy‑free
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ground Beef: Ground turkey, Ground chicken
- Instead of White Long‑Grain Rice: Brown rice, Basmati rice
- Instead of Onion: Shallot, Green onion
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (¼ tsp), Garlic paste
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Soy Sauce (optional): Tamari (gluten‑free), Worcestershire sauce
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet
- Medium Saucepan with Lid
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Rinsing the rice before cooking to prevent gummy texture.
- Cooking the ground beef until fully browned and reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Allowing the rice to steam covered without lifting the lid.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a 80/20 lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the beef with cooked lentils.
Troubleshooting
Rice is mushy or sticks together.
Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking and use the correct water‑to‑rice ratio (2:1). Avoid lifting the lid during simmering.
Ground beef is dry or overcooked.
Do not over‑cook; remove from heat as soon as it loses pink color. If using very lean beef, add a teaspoon of olive oil.
Meal containers become soggy.
Let the rice and beef cool to room temperature before sealing, and store in vented containers if possible.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; reheat in microwave or skillet.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; perishable ingredients require refrigeration.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cool the cooked rice and beef separately before combining to keep textures optimal.
- Portion into individual containers for grab‑and‑go meals.
- Reheat in microwave (1‑2 minutes) or in a skillet with a splash of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of ground beef and rice meal prep in American cuisine?
Ground beef and rice is a staple of American home‑cooking, especially among busy families and fitness enthusiasts who need a quick, affordable source of protein and carbs. The combination became popular with the rise of meal‑prep culture in the 2010s, offering convenience and portion control for the workweek.
What regional variations of beef‑and‑rice meals exist within the United States?
In the Southwest, the dish often includes chili powder, cumin, and black beans, while in the Midwest it may be seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Some Southern versions add Cajun seasoning or serve the beef over seasoned dirty rice.
How is ground beef and rice traditionally served in American households?
It is typically plated with the beef on top of a mound of fluffy white rice, sometimes accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. In meal‑prep settings, the two components are portioned into individual containers for easy reheating.
What occasions or celebrations is ground beef and rice meal prep associated with in American culture?
While not a celebratory dish per se, it is commonly prepared for the workweek, sports team meals, and fitness‑focused gatherings where quick, balanced nutrition is needed.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in Adam Korman’s ground beef and rice meal prep versus acceptable substitutes?
Adam Korman uses plain ground beef, white long‑grain rice, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce. Substitutes include ground turkey or chicken for the meat, brown rice for whole‑grain carbs, and tamari for a gluten‑free soy sauce alternative.
What other American dishes pair well with ground beef and rice meal prep?
Consider adding a side of roasted broccoli, a simple coleslaw, or a fresh cucumber‑tomato salad. For extra flavor, a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of salsa works nicely.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making ground beef and rice meal prep?
Common errors include overcooking the rice (which makes it mushy), not rinsing the rice before cooking, and cooking the ground beef past the safe internal temperature, which dries it out. Also, sealing hot food in containers can cause soggy lids.
Why does this recipe use a skillet for browning the beef instead of a grill or oven?
A skillet allows quick, even browning and easy incorporation of aromatics like onion and garlic, which is essential for a fast Sunday prep. Grilling would add extra time and equipment, while the oven could dry out the meat.
Can I make Adam Korman’s ground beef and rice meal prep ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the recipe is designed for make‑ahead. Cool the cooked rice and beef to room temperature, then divide into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to two months.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the ground beef is done?
The beef should be uniformly brown with no pink spots, crumbly rather than mushy, and should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). It should also be well‑seasoned and slightly glossy if soy sauce is used.
What does the YouTube channel Adam Korman specialize in?
The YouTube channel Adam Korman focuses on quick, budget‑friendly cooking tutorials, meal‑prep ideas, and simple home‑cooking techniques that help viewers create tasty meals with minimal fuss.
How does the YouTube channel Adam Korman’s approach to American meal‑prep cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Adam Korman emphasizes ultra‑fast preparation (often under 30 minutes), uses everyday pantry staples, and presents the steps in a clear, no‑fluff style. Unlike many channels that showcase elaborate plating, his videos prioritize practicality and repeatable results for busy home cooks.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
