If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly dinner with a twist, this Dr Pepper BBQ Beef & Rice Skillet is the answer! 🥘 Sweet, smoky, and savory all come together in one pan thanks to the unique flavor of Dr Pepper paired with BBQ sauce.
In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty family meal that’s cheaper than takeout and sure to surprise everyone at the table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, back-to-school season, or when you want comfort food that’s just a little bit different.
Trust me — one bite and you’ll see why I say, “You’ve GOT to try this skillet tonight!”
This Dr Pepper BBQ Beef & Rice Skillet is a quick and budget-friendly one-pan dinner loaded with smoky, sweet, and savory flavor. Made with ground beef, rice, BBQ sauce, and a splash of Dr Pepper, it’s the perfect 30-minute weeknight meal for the whole family.
Add the ground beef to a pan over medium high heat. Fry until cooked through and browned. Move it to one side of the pan and add in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Stir and sauté until fragrant and the bell pepper begins to soften. Mix until well combined.
Move everything to one side again and add in the rice. Stir and cooked until it browns up a little bit. Mix once again and reduce heat to medium low. Season with paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and corn. Mix one again.
Pour in the beef broth, Dr. Pepper, BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well. Bring it to a soft boil, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked.
Remove the cover and add in the cheese. Place the top back on and let the cheese melt down.
Garnish with the parsley and plate. Serve and enjoy your Dr Pepper BBQ Beef & Rice Skillet!
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional values are a within reason estimate and my vary depending on several factors.
Rice Options: White long-grain cooks fastest, but brown rice or minute rice can be swapped in. Just adjust liquid and cooking time.
Beef Swap: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work great if you want a leaner or different flavor.
BBQ Sauce Choice: A smoky or hickory-style BBQ sauce pairs best with Dr Pepper, but use what you have on hand.
Make it Cheesy: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella at the end for a creamy, kid-friendly finish.
Veggie Add-Ins: Corn, peas, or mushrooms stretch the meal and add color. Frozen veggies work fine.
Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water.
Freezer Friendly: Cool completely, portion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
