Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet.
- introduction — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- why make this recipe — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- how to make Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- how to serve Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- how to store Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- tips to make Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- variation (if any) — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- FAQs — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
introduction — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet is a simple one-pan meal that cooks fast and fills the kitchen with good smells.
This dish mixes browned meatballs, rice, peas, and herbs for a full, cozy meal.
Try it when you want an easy dinner, or pair it with a light stew like this cod, celery and potato stew for a bigger meal.
why make this recipe — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet saves time and needs few pans.
It feeds a family, and you can change meats or herbs to fit what you have.
If you like hearty rice dishes, you might also enjoy a creamy option like creamy wild rice and mushroom soup as a side or starter.
how to make Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix ground meat with salt, pepper, and herbs. Form into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Add rice and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Return meatballs to the skillet, add peas, cover, and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.
For tips on cooking rice with good texture, see a similar rice-based soup method in this curried chicken, lentil and rice soup.
how to serve Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
Serve the Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet hot from the pan.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and a fresh taste.
Add a simple side salad or warm bread and you have a full meal.
how to store Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- Cool the skillet to room temperature, then store in airtight containers.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- Use a mix of beef and turkey for a milder flavor and good texture.
- Brown meatballs well to add flavor before cooking with rice.
- Stir rice once after adding broth, then leave it covered to cook.
- For a different style, try serving with pita or rice sides like Egyptian beef with pita and rice for extra variety.
variation (if any) — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
- Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or lamb.
- Use brown rice (increase broth and cook time).
- Add bell peppers or spinach for more veggies.
- Try different herbs: rosemary, parsley, or cilantro.
FAQs — Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
Q: Can I use leftover cooked rice?
A: Yes. Add cooked rice near the end and heat until everything is warm. Watch liquid amounts so it does not get soggy.
Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-browning?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, then add to the skillet for the rice step.
Q: What skillet size works best?
A: A large 10–12 inch skillet with a lid works well to hold meatballs and rice.
Q: Where can I buy a good skillet for this recipe?
A: Buy it here.

Garlic Meatball and Herb Rice Skillet
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey Use a mix for milder flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons dried herbs thyme, oregano, or basil
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rice white or brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen peas or fresh peas
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
Garnish
- fresh herbs such as parsley or basil
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix ground meat with salt, pepper, and herbs. Form into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Add rice and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Return meatballs to the skillet, add peas, cover, and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

