Cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of stew this winter. There’s nothing quite like the combination of tender beef, flavorful rice, and savory broth to fill your belly and soothe your soul. In this collection of 18 hearty stew recipes, we’ve gathered some of our favorite takes on the classic combo, from spicy Cajun-inspired twists to slow-cooker staples and international flavors. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend warrior seeking a satisfying meal after a long day outdoors, these comforting beef and rice stews are sure to become new favorites.
Classic Beef and Rice Stew
Classic Beef and Rice Stew Recipe
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this classic beef and rice dish is a staple of home cooking. With tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and creamy rice, it’s a meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the rice, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Beef and Rice Stew
This hearty stew combines tender beef, flavorful spices, and creamy rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the broth, rice, and browned beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef and Rice Stew
A hearty and comforting slow cooker stew that combines tender beef, flavorful rice, and a blend of savory spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a stress-free meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, rice, beef broth, onion, garlic, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine, then cover the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender beef, flavorful rice, and sweet bell peppers come together to create a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, filling them as full as possible.
7. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Ground beef, cooked with onions and seasonings, is combined with cooked rice, canned tomatoes, and melted cheese in a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, milk, and oregano. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Soup with Vegetables
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the vegetable broth, rice, mixed vegetables, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mexican Beef and Rice Stew
This flavorful stew combines tender beef, creamy rice, and spices for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich aroma and deep flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until beef is tender.
6. Fluff cooked rice with a fork; stir into stew.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Rice Pilaf
A hearty and flavorful pilaf dish that combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the same pan and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika to the pan and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
7. Add the chicken broth and browned beef back into the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
8. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
This recipe combines tender beef and rice with the natural sweetness of cabbage, all wrapped up in a flavorful and nutritious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head and blanch in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and olive oil.
6. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/2 cup of the beef and rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
7. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the cabbage to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
8. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice One-Pot Meal
Simplify your dinner routine with this hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender beef, aromatic rice, and a hint of spice. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice to the pot and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Rice Curry Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful fusion of beef, rice, and aromatic spices, perfect for a comforting meal. With its rich curry flavor and tender beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck or brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, cooked rice, and browned beef. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beef is tender.
5. Season with pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Rice with Mushroom Gravy
A hearty Beef and Rice with Mushroom Gravy dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture and stir to combine.
7. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
8. Bring the gravy to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
9. Stir in cooked beef strips and cooked rice.
10. Transfer the dish to a baking dish and dot with butter.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Beef and Rice Jambalaya
A classic Southern dish that combines the flavors of beef, rice, and spices with a hint of heat from the Cajun cuisine. This hearty jambalaya is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cooked rice into the skillet and combine well with the beef and vegetable mixture.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef and savory rice with sweet bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and mix well.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Rice with Tomato Sauce
This classic comfort food dish is a staple for many families. With tender beef, flavorful rice, and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Serve the beef mixture over the cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Rice Stew with Herbs
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender beef, flavorful herbs, and creamy rice to create a satisfying stew perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine beef, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
2. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Add cooked rice to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Beef and Rice with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender beef, fluffy rice, and the richness of coconut milk. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Stir in coconut milk and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve beef on top of rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stew with Red Wine
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful red wine, and creamy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, red wine, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the beef is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 18 comforting beef and rice recipes! From classic stews to spicy Cajun twists, there’s something for everyone. Slow cooker options are perfect for busy days, while casserole and stuffed pepper variations offer easy one-pot meals. Add some international flair with Mexican-inspired stews or curry-based dishes. And don’t forget about hearty soups and pilafs that pair perfectly with crusty bread. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple or adventurous, these recipes are sure to hit the spot on a chilly day.
