Name: Beef & Rice Homemade Dog Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Pet Food
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups water; 1 cup carrots, finely chopped; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1/2 cup peas; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional); 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

I love preparing this Beef & Rice Homemade Dog Food when I want to serve a wholesome, vet-friendly meal made with simple, nourishing ingredients. This hearty combination of lean ground beef, brown rice, and colorful vegetables creates a balanced, satisfying bowl that supports overall wellness and keeps tails wagging with excitement.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe uses everyday, affordable ingredients while still providing balanced nutrition. The lean ground beef delivers quality protein to help support strong muscles, while brown rice offers gentle, digestible carbohydrates for steady energy.

I also like adding carrots, green beans, and peas for natural vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The optional turmeric and parsley give a small nutritional boost while keeping flavors dog-friendly.

What makes this recipe even better for me is how easy it is to prepare in under an hour, and I can portion it out for several days at once.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound lean ground beef

1 cup brown rice

2 cups water

1 cup carrots, finely chopped

1 cup green beans, chopped

1/2 cup peas

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Directions

I start by combining the brown rice and water in a medium saucepan. I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer for 35–40 minutes until the rice is tender and fully cooked.

While the rice cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until it is browned and no pink remains. If necessary, I drain any excess fat.

Next, I stir in the chopped carrots and green beans and cook them for about 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften. I add the peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Once everything is cooked, I mix the rice into the beef and vegetable mixture until well combined. If I am using turmeric and parsley, I stir them in at this stage.

Before serving, I always allow the food to cool completely to ensure it is safe for my dog.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap ground turkey for beef when I want a leaner protein option. I can also substitute white rice if I need something even gentler on digestion.

For extra nutrients, I occasionally add a small amount of cooked sweet potato or finely chopped spinach. If I am preparing this for a dog with specific dietary needs, I consult my veterinarian before making ingredient adjustments.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze individual portions so I can thaw only what I need.

When reheating, I gently warm the food in the microwave or on the stovetop until just slightly warm, never hot. I always stir well and check the temperature before serving.

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FAQs

Can I feed this to my dog every day?

I consider this a balanced base recipe, but I always consult my veterinarian before making it a long-term daily diet to ensure all nutritional needs are met.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

I can substitute white rice if I want a more easily digestible option, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Do I need to add supplements?

I sometimes discuss supplements with my veterinarian, especially if I plan to feed homemade meals regularly, since some dogs may require additional vitamins or minerals.

Can I freeze this dog food?

I freeze it in individual portions for convenience. It thaws well in the refrigerator overnight.

How do I know the portion size for my dog?

I base portion sizes on my dog’s weight, age, and activity level. When I am unsure, I ask my veterinarian to help determine the right serving amount.

Conclusion

I find this Beef & Rice Homemade Dog Food to be a simple, nourishing, and practical way to provide a balanced homemade meal. With lean protein, wholesome grains, and colorful vegetables, I can feel confident serving a dish that supports my dog’s health while delivering a flavor they genuinely enjoy.

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