If you’re looking for a hearty, easy-to-make dinner that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice is a must-try. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even potlucks. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore how to create this dish step-by-step, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice
- Quick and Easy: Everything comes together in about 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of beef, rice, and cheese is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with different veggies, spices, or cheeses.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Rice:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups beef broth (Why homemade broth is better)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (Tips for shredding cheese at home)
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- A large skillet with a lid or a Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
- Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
📌 Pro Tip: Browning the beef without stirring too much allows it to develop a deeper flavor. Learn how to properly brown ground beef at The Spruce Eats.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Add the Rice and Spices
- Stir the rice into the skillet, allowing it to toast slightly for 1–2 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the rice.
- Add the smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
4. Incorporate the Liquid
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (including their juices). Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze any browned bits.
📌 Pro Tip: Deglazing adds extra flavor to the dish. Learn more about this technique at Serious Eats.
5. Simmer and Cook
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
📌 Pro Tip: Avoid lifting the lid while the rice cooks to maintain consistent heat and steam.
6. Add the Cheese
- Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for about 2–3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations
- Vegetable Additions:
Add diced bell peppers, frozen peas, or corn to the skillet for extra texture and nutrition. - Spicy Version:
Include a diced jalapeño or ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for some heat. - Mexican-Inspired:
Substitute the smoked paprika with chili powder and add a dash of lime juice before serving. - Healthier Option:
Use ground turkey instead of ground beef and swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa.
Storage and Reheating for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
Refrigerating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
10 Irresistible Steps to the Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80% lean preferred
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir the rice into the skillet and toast for 1–2 minutes. Add smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the cooked rice mixture. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve warm.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fiber: 3g
Pairings and Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread:
Serve with Homemade Garlic Bread for a complete meal. - Side Salad:
A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with this cheesy, hearty dish. Try this Classic Caesar Salad Recipe. - Steamed Vegetables:
Add some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for a well-rounded plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?
2. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
5. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice dish is a true weeknight hero. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and experience the perfect combination of savory beef, tender rice, and melty cheese. 🍴✨
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