Delicious Chilli Beef And Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender beef cooked with just the right amount of chilli heat, all served over fluffy, steaming rice. It’s a simple meal that packs a punch with bold spices and a satisfying mix of textures.
I love making this dish when I want something quick but still full of flavor. The chilli gives it a little kick without being too overwhelming, and the beef stays nice and juicy. One tip I always follow is to let the beef marinate a bit before cooking to get extra tenderness and depth of flavor.
This chilli beef and rice is perfect for weeknight dinners or when friends come over because it’s easy to whip up and everyone usually ends up asking for seconds. I like to serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad to balance out the spices. It’s comfy, filling, and always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish its hearty flavor and texture. For leaner options, you can use ground turkey or chicken. They’ll be lighter but still tasty.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is fluffy and separates well, making it perfect here. If you prefer, try brown rice or jasmine rice for a different texture and nuttier taste.
Onion & Bell Pepper: These add sweetness and crunch. If you can’t find red bell pepper, try green or yellow for a similar effect. They all caramelize nicely and balance the chili flavors.
Chili Sauce: This adds the spice and kick. Use whatever chili sauce you like, from mild to hot. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount or swap with a sweet chili sauce for milder flavor.
Beef Broth or Water: Broth deepens the flavor but water works fine if you want to keep it simple or lower sodium.
How Can You Get Tender, Flavorful Beef and Perfectly Cooked Rice?
The secret to tender beef is cooking it over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan. Breaking it up and letting it brown adds great flavor. Don’t rush the onion and pepper—slowly cooking them softens their texture and brings out sweetness.
- Start by cooking the rice first; fluff it gently with a fork to avoid mushy clumps.
- Heat oil in the skillet until hot before adding veggies to get good caramelization.
- Brown the beef well to build flavor; avoid stirring too much at first so it gets a nice crust.
- Add seasonings and liquid, then simmer briefly to meld flavors without drying the beef.
- Adjust chili sauce to your spice level, tasting as you go to get it just right.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I recommend it because it gives enough space to cook beef and vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
- Medium pot with lid – perfect for cooking rice separately so it stays fluffy and doesn’t soak up extra juices.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – easy for stirring everything together and breaking up the beef as it cooks.
- Measuring spoons and cups – helps get the right amount of seasoning and rice.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the onion, bell pepper, and garlic with safety and ease.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. They cook quickly and subtly change the flavor.
- Mix in black beans or corn to boost texture and add nutritional value. They work well with the chili flavors.
- Use different spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra heat or smoky flavor.
- Top with sour cream or shredded cheese for a creamy, cooling contrast to the spicy beef.
Delicious Chilli Beef And Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
For The Chilli Beef:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 pound (250g) lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. Total time is roughly 30 minutes, making it a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy evenings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, fluff the rice lightly with a fork and keep it warm while you prepare the beef.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and red bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to caramelize — around 5 to 7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cooking the Beef and Adding Seasonings:
Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef in the empty part. Break the beef up with a spatula and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. Stir the meat and vegetables together, then add the soy sauce, chili sauce, ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well to combine.
4. Simmering and Serving:
Pour in the beef broth or water, then lower the heat to medium-low. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend and the sauce thickens a bit. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you want a little more heat by adding extra chili sauce. Finally, serve the chili beef over the warm rice and sprinkle chopped green onions on top.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.
Can I Substitute Rice with Another Grain?
Absolutely! Quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice are great alternatives if you want a different texture or a lower-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
Use less chili sauce or swap it for a milder version, like sweet chili sauce. You can also add a bit of plain yogurt or sour cream on the side to balance the heat when serving.
