Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

In our house, weeknight dinners need to be quick, easy, and, most importantly, something everyone will actually eat without complaint. Finding that sweet spot between convenience and deliciousness can be a real challenge, but this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet recipe? It’s a total game-changer. Honestly, I stumbled upon this recipe on a particularly hectic Tuesday, and it’s been a regular in our rotation ever since. The kids devour it, my husband asks for seconds, and I love that it’s all cooked in one pan, minimizing cleanup. The savory ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheese create a symphony of flavors and textures that’s pure comfort food heaven. If you’re looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s also incredibly simple to make, look no further – this skillet recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This recipe is all about simplicity and pantry staples. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create this flavorful skillet meal:

• Ground Beef: 1.5 pounds of ground beef, 80/20 blend is recommended for flavor and a little fat to keep the dish moist. You can also use leaner ground beef if preferred, just be mindful it might be slightly drier. Ground turkey or ground chicken are also suitable substitutes for a lighter option.
• Long Grain Rice: 1 cup of uncooked long grain rice. Long grain rice works best as it cooks up fluffy and separate, perfect for absorbing the flavors of the dish. Basmati or Jasmine rice can also be used. Avoid short grain rice, as it tends to become too sticky in skillet recipes.
• Beef Broth: 2 cups of beef broth, low sodium is preferred to control the salt level. Beef broth adds depth and richness to the rice and the overall flavor profile. Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives, but beef broth truly enhances the beefy taste.
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, diced. Onions provide a foundational savory flavor base for the dish. Yellow onions are versatile and become sweet when cooked. White or sweet onions can also be used.
• Bell Pepper: 1 bell pepper, any color (green, red, yellow, or orange), diced. Bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and a pleasant crunch, as well as vibrant color to the skillet. Choose your favorite color, or use a mix for visual appeal and varied nutrients.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic is essential for adding aromatic and pungent flavor. Freshly minced garlic is best, but pre-minced garlic from a jar can be used for convenience.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: 1 (10-ounce) can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained. These add a subtle kick of heat and acidity, along with moisture and tomato flavor. Ro-Tel is a popular brand. If you prefer less spice, use regular diced tomatoes and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a controlled heat.
• Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and adds richness and depth to the sauce. It also helps to thicken the sauce slightly.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Cheddar cheese provides that classic cheesy flavor and melts beautifully over the skillet. Sharp, medium, or mild cheddar can be used depending on your preference. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses would also work wonderfully.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the ground beef. You can substitute with another cooking oil like vegetable oil or canola oil.
• Spices: 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for extra heat. These spices create a warm, savory, and slightly smoky flavor profile that complements the beef, rice, and cheese perfectly. Adjust the spices to your taste.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness and color as a final garnish. Cilantro is another great option if you prefer its flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This recipe is designed for ease and speed, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron or oven-safe) over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Properly browning the beef is crucial for developing flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure browning rather than steaming.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing the vegetables softens them and releases their natural sweetness, adding another layer of flavor to the dish. Ensure the onions become translucent and the bell peppers are slightly tender.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Cooking the garlic and spices briefly in the hot skillet releases their aromas and enhances their flavors, infusing the dish with a warm and savory essence. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Stir in Tomato Paste and Tomatoes: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Then, add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained). Cooking the tomato paste briefly caramelizes it, deepening its flavor and adding richness to the sauce. Adding the undrained diced tomatoes ensures sufficient liquid for cooking the rice.
5. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in uncooked long grain rice and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Simmering allows the rice to cook gently in the flavorful broth, absorbing all the delicious flavors. Ensure the lid is tight to trap steam and cook the rice properly. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to prevent steam from escaping.
6. Melt the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet again (or place it under the broiler for a minute or two if using an oven-safe skillet) and let the cheese melt completely, about 2-3 minutes. The residual heat from the skillet will melt the cheese beautifully. For a more golden-brown and bubbly cheese topping, you can briefly broil it, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! Fresh parsley adds a final touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey for the best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

(Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approximate)
• Calories: 450-550 calories
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10-12 grams
• Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
• Sodium: 500-700 mg (varies depending on broth and cheese)

Note: These values are estimates and for informational purposes only. For precise nutritional information, use a nutritional calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Prep Time and Cook Time for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This recipe is wonderfully efficient, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (chopping vegetables, gathering ingredients)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (browning beef, sautéing vegetables, simmering rice)
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a complete meal in itself, but you can enhance your dining experience with these serving suggestions:

• Side Salads:
  • Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the skillet.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a creamy and tangy element to the meal.
  • Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers offers a fresh and vibrant side.
• Vegetables:
  • Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Steamed vegetables offer a healthy and simple side dish that complements the skillet well.
  • Roasted Asparagus or Brussels Sprouts: Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor.
  • Corn on the Cob: In season, corn on the cob is a delicious and summery side that pairs well with the skillet.
• Toppings and Garnishes:
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tanginess.
  • Avocado or Guacamole: Sliced avocado or guacamole adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
  • Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa or pico de gallo adds a burst of freshness and flavor.
  • Chopped Cilantro or Green Onions: These add a fresh herbal element and visual appeal.
  • Hot Sauce: For those who like a little extra heat, hot sauce is a great addition.
  • Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for scooping up the cheesy beef and rice mixture.
• Bread:
  • Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread is always a welcome addition to a comfort food meal.
  • Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left in the skillet.
  • Cornbread: Cornbread provides a slightly sweet and crumbly side that complements the savory skillet.

Additional Tips and Tricks for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Elevate your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet to the next level with these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Use Quality Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. The fat content contributes to the richness of the dish. If using leaner ground beef, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the skillet to prevent dryness.
2. Don’t Skip Browning the Beef: Taking the time to properly brown the ground beef is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors. Don’t rush this step. Browning creates Maillard reaction, which enhances the taste significantly.
3. Sauté Vegetables Until Tender: Ensure the onions and bell peppers are sautéed until softened before adding other ingredients. This step brings out their sweetness and prevents them from being crunchy in the final dish.
4. Toast the Spices: Briefly toasting the spices in the hot skillet before adding liquids intensifies their aroma and flavor. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in the overall taste of the skillet.
5. Use Hot Broth: Using hot beef broth will help bring the skillet back to a simmer quickly after adding the rice and broth. This speeds up the cooking process and ensures even cooking of the rice.
6. Don’t Overcook the Rice: Follow the simmering time closely and check the rice for doneness around the 20-minute mark. Overcooked rice can become mushy. The rice is done when it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
7. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend would all be delicious alternatives to cheddar cheese. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Let’s address some common questions you might have about making this delicious skillet recipe:

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice and requires more liquid. Increase the beef broth to 2.5 cups and simmer for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the brown rice is cooked through.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, this skillet recipe is great for meal prepping. You can prepare it completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry when reheating.

Q3: Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet?

A: Yes, this recipe freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q4: Can I add more vegetables to this skillet?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy. Some great additions would be corn kernels (canned, frozen, or fresh), black beans, peas, zucchini, mushrooms, or diced carrots. Add them along with the bell pepper and onions and sauté until tender-crisp.

Q5: Can I make this recipe spicier?

A: Yes, if you like a spicier dish, you can easily increase the heat. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies, or add a diced jalapeno pepper when sautéing the vegetables. You can also serve it with hot sauce for those who want extra heat.

Q6: Can I make this recipe without cheese?

A: Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version. While the cheese adds a creamy and cheesy element, the skillet will still be flavorful and delicious without it. You could also consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is truly a weeknight dinner champion. It’s quick, easy, customizable, and a guaranteed hit with the whole family. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in our kitchen and hopefully yours too! Enjoy!

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