Print

Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

cheesy ground beef and rice skillet - featured image
Print Recipe

This cheesy ground beef and rice skillet is a quick, one-pan comfort food that comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, made with simple ingredients, and delivers a rich, savory flavor that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) Ground Beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 Medium Yellow Onion, diced
  • 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (200g) Long-Grain White Rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
  • 2 cups (480ml) Beef Broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 411g) Diced Tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups (170g) Shredded Cheddar Cheese (shredded from a block)
  • Optional: Fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or sour cream for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink (5-7 minutes). Leave about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the Seasonings: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the beef and onion mixture. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  4. Combine the Rice and Liquids: Pour in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and the entire can of diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir well to combine.
  5. Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  6. Check the Rice: After 18 minutes, remove the lid. The rice should be tender and most liquid absorbed. If still crunchy, add a splash of broth, cover, and cook 2-3 more minutes. If too much liquid remains, simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden top.
  8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering (the ‘no-peek’ rule) to ensure even cooking. Shred your own cheese from a block for the best melting texture. For a nuttier flavor, toast the dry rice in the pan for 1-2 minutes before adding liquids. If using lean ground beef (90/10), add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy ground beef and rice skillet, easy 30-minute dinner, one-pan meal, ground beef recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food, cheesy rice skillet

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/best-cheesy-ground-beef-and-rice-skillet-easy-30-minute-dinner/