Print

Quick Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet: Easy 20-Minute Dinner

cheesy beef and rice skillet - featured image
Print Recipe

This cheesy beef and rice skillet is a quick, one-pan dinner that comes together in about 20 minutes. It’s packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and a blend of melted cheeses, making it a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked and rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and let it cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to sear, then stir and cook for another 4-5 minutes until fully browned. Spoon out excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add rinsed rice and stir for about 1 minute to toast slightly. Pour in beef broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  6. After 15 minutes, check the rice. If still firm, add 2 tablespoons of broth or water, cover, and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
  7. Turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2 minutes until cheese is melted.
  8. Remove lid, gently stir to incorporate cheese. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, shred your own cheese from a block to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. If you don’t have a lid, use aluminum foil crimped tightly around the skillet. For a crunchy top, broil the skillet for 1-2 minutes after adding cheese (ensure skillet is oven-safe). Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy beef and rice skillet, one-pan dinner, quick weeknight meal, ground beef recipe, easy dinner

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/quick-cheesy-beef-and-rice-skillet-easy-20-minute-dinner/