Recipes

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This cheesy ground beef and rice skillet is a nostalgic one-pan meal that is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious!

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines flavorful beef, savory spices, and melted cheese, all cooked together in one skillet.

Who doesn’t love a meal that’s simple to prepare and cleanup?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes me back to my childhood when my mom would whip up similar meals.

The addition of cheese is my personal favorite touch, and it makes this dish even more delightful. It’s a comforting meal that your whole family will enjoy!

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb. ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
1 cup chopped onions
1 cup diced orange bell pepper
2 large diced Roma tomatoes
1 cup jasmine or long-grain rice (rinsed)
2 1/2 cups beef broth (can use bouillon)
2 1/2 cups freshly grated Colby Jack cheese
3/4 tsp salt (to taste)
2 large minced garlic cloves
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Small bunch of chopped cilantro (or parsley)

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb. of ground beef. Cook until it loses all its pink color, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Browning ground beef until no longer pink

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Broth

While the beef is browning, prepare your beef broth. In a bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of hot water with 2 1/2 teaspoons of beef bouillon. Stir until dissolved and set aside.

Step 3: Drain the Beef

Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.

Step 4: Add Rice and Onions

Add 1 cup of rinsed jasmine rice and 1 cup of diced onions to the skillet. Stir together and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the rice starts to lose its white color and the onions soften.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Vegetables

Now, add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup of diced orange bell pepper, and 2 diced Roma tomatoes to the skillet. Mix everything together.

Adding garlic and vegetables to the skillet

Step 6: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in 1 1/2 teaspoons of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir to combine.

Step 7: Add Beef Broth

Pour in the prepared beef broth (2 1/2 cups) and stir everything together. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15-18 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Cilantro

Once the rice is cooked, stir in a small bunch of chopped cilantro and top with 2 1/2 cups of grated Colby Jack cheese. Mix gently.

Adding cheese and cilantro to the skillet

Step 9: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Serve

Serve the cheesy ground beef and rice with homemade corn tortillas and fresh avocado on top for an extra kick!

Serving the cheesy ground beef and rice with tortillas

This cheesy ground beef and rice dish is not only comforting but also a fantastic way to bring the family together. Enjoy with a refreshing drink for a complete meal!

If you try this recipe, let me know what you think in the comments!