Introduction

This ultimate 30-minute cheesy beef and rice skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, satisfying meal fast. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this one-pan wonder delivers incredible flavor in record time. If you enjoy this style of easy skillet meal, you might also like the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe for another comforting dinner option.

Ingredients

This comforting one-pot meal delivers savory ground beef, tender broccoli, and creamy cheese in every satisfying bite.

• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 (10¾ oz.) can reduced-sodium or healthy request condensed cream of broccoli soup
• 1 (8 oz.) can no salt added tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups uncooked instant brown rice
• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flake
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp. cilantro, chopped

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice recipe is about 25% faster than similar one-pot meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Cook until no pink remains and the beef is nicely browned, about 5–7 minutes. For best flavor, let the beef develop a slight crust before stirring.

Step 2 — Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Don’t rush this step—properly softened onions will add sweetness and depth to your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice.

Step 3 — Add Rice and Liquid

Stir in uncooked long-grain white rice and cook for 1 minute to toast lightly. Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.

Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds incredible flavor to the dish.

Step 4 — Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly. Simmer for 18–20 minutes without peeking.

The rice is done when it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If rice is still firm, add 2 tablespoons water and cook 2–3 minutes longer.

Step 5 — Check for Doneness

Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to separate grains.

The rice should be tender but not mushy. If there’s excess liquid, return to low heat uncovered for 2–3 minutes to evaporate.

Step 6 — Add Cheese and Season

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. For extra creaminess, you can use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.

Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. The cheese will add saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Let the Cheesy Ground Beef Rice rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	23g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — Lighter protein option with similar texture and mild flavor that pairs well with cheese.
• Cauliflower Rice — Lower-carb alternative that absorbs the cheesy beef flavors while reducing calories.
• Quinoa — Higher-protein grain swap that provides a nutty flavor and complete amino acid profile.
• Nutritional Yeast or Vegan Cheese — Dairy-free option that delivers the cheesy flavor without lactose.
• Lean Ground Beef (90/10 or 93/7) — Reduced fat version that maintains the classic Cheesy Ground Beef Rice taste.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Cheese — Cuts salt significantly while keeping the dish moist and flavorful.
• Lentils or Mushrooms — Plant-based protein alternatives that create a hearty, savory texture.
• Brown Rice or Farro — Whole grain swaps that add fiber and nutrients to your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal
• Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy sauce
• Perfect for potlucks, weeknight family dinners, or casual gatherings with friends
• Top with fresh chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor
• Great for meal prep – divide into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week
• Serve in colorful bowls or on plates with a sprinkle of extra cheese for appealing presentation

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice is versatile enough for both quick family meals and casual entertaining, making it a go-to comfort food option that pairs well with simple sides and garnishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan with ground beef, causing it to steam instead of brown. Fix: Cook in batches if needed to ensure a proper sear and develop rich, meaty flavor.
• Mistake: Using instant rice, which can turn mushy and absorb too much liquid. Fix: Opt for long-grain white rice for the best texture and consistent cooking results.
• Mistake: Adding cheese too early, causing it to become greasy or separate. Fix: Stir in shredded cheese off the heat at the very end, allowing residual warmth to melt it smoothly.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the ground beef sufficiently during cooking. Fix: Season the beef with salt, pepper, and aromatics like garlic and onion as it browns to build a flavor foundation.
• Mistake: Using lean ground beef, which can result in a less flavorful and drier dish. Fix: Choose 80/20 ground beef for optimal fat content that adds moisture and richness.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to deglaze the pan after browning the beef. Fix: Add a splash of broth to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the pan before adding the rice.
• Mistake: Incorrect liquid-to-rice ratio, leading to soupy or undercooked rice. Fix: Precisely measure your broth or water according to your rice variety’s package instructions.
• Mistake: Over-stirring the dish once the rice is added, which releases starch and makes it gummy. Fix: Stir just to combine ingredients, then let it simmer undisturbed with the lid on.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded bagged cheese containing anti-caking agents. Fix: Shred a block of cheese yourself for superior melting and a creamier sauce in your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice.
• Mistake: Rushing the cooking process and not letting the rice rest after cooking. Fix: Allow the finished dish to sit, covered and off the heat, for 5-10 minutes to let the rice absorb any residual liquid evenly.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), stirring occasionally for even heating.

Always ensure your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice cools to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to maintain food safety and quality.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice skillet is an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. If you enjoyed this one-pan dinner, try our Classic Lasagna Recipe or Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe next. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

What can I use instead of ground beef in this recipe?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust the cooking time as needed for your chosen substitute. The cheesy flavor will still make this a delicious meal.

How can I make my Cheesy Ground Beef Rice more creamy?

For a creamier texture, stir in an extra 1/4 cup of shredded cheese or a few tablespoons of sour cream at the end of cooking. Ensure your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice is hot so the additions melt and incorporate smoothly.