A Flavorful and Easy One-Pan Meal
When it comes to weeknight dinners, few things are as satisfying as a hearty, one-pan meal. This ground pork and rice skillet is packed with bold flavors, simple ingredients, and easy prep, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights. If you’re searching for ground pork recipes that are both comforting and quick to make, this dish is the perfect solution.
This recipe takes inspiration from classic pork sausage recipes by incorporating aromatic seasonings, garlic, and onions, giving the ground pork a deep, rich flavor. The best part? Everything is cooked in one skillet, meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re looking for a simple rice skillet recipe or a new way to use ground pork, this dish is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Savory Ground Pork and Rice Skillet
Ingredients
- For the Pork & Seasoning
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- For the Skillet
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small bell pepper diced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce optional
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or green onions chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Ground Pork
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and the ground pork, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and oregano.
- Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is fully browned and slightly crispy. If there’s excess grease, drain it off but leave a little for flavor.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Push the pork to one side of the skillet and add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir everything together.
- Step 3: Toast the Rice
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir well, allowing it to absorb the flavors for 1 to 2 minutes. Lightly toasting the rice before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor.
- Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
- Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well, making sure the rice is evenly distributed.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes (or longer if using brown rice). Check occasionally and stir if needed to prevent sticking.
- Step 5: Add Veggies & Finish Cooking
- When the rice is almost done, stir in the frozen peas or corn. Cover and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Step 6: Fluff & Garnish
- Turn off the heat and let the skillet rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This rice skillet is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with sides like:
Side salad with a light vinaigrette
Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast
Garlic bread for scooping up every last bite
A fried egg on top for extra protein and richness
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days
Freezing – Freeze in individual portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
Reheating – Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep the rice from drying out
Recipe Variations
Spicy Kick – Add extra crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce
More Veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini
Different Grains – Swap white rice for quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle dairy-free or regular cheese on top before serving
