Looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful dinner that the whole family will love? This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the ultimate weeknight meal! Packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheese, this dish is infused with bold Mexican-inspired flavors and comes together in just one pan. Perfect for busy evenings, it’s a comforting, cheesy delight that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Ingredients and Preparation Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Steps
What You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups lower-sodium beef broth
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped green onion or cilantro
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Veggies
First, cook the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until the beef is browned and the veggies are tender, about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.
Step 2: Add Rice and Seasonings
Next, stir in the rice, salt, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute to toast the rice slightly, then mix in the tomato paste and stir for another minute to deepen the flavors.
Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes
After that, add the diced tomatoes (with juices), broth, green chiles, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the delicious flavors.
Step 4: Top with Cheese and Garnish
Finally, remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with cheese, and cover for 5 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted. Garnish with green onions or cilantro for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
The Best Time to Savor Your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week. The rich, savory flavors of the beef and rice, combined with the gooey melted cheese, make it a dish that’s hard to resist. Pair it with a crisp green salad or warm tortillas for a complete meal. For a festive twist, serve it alongside Cranberry Brie Bites or a glass of Thanksgiving Harvest Punch.
Ready to indulge? This skillet meal is sure to bring everyone to the table with smiles on their faces. Don’t forget to check out our Beef Recipe Collection for more hearty dinner ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Adjust the recipe accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This skillet meal stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Adjust the seasonings to suit your preference.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. You can also swap the cheese for pepper jack for a spicier flavor.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
6
Category
Comfort food
This one-pan wonder is packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheese—all infused with bold Mexican-inspired flavors! It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for a weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredient
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups lower-sodium beef broth
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped green onion or cilantro
Instructions
- First, cook the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until the beef is browned and veggies are tender, about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Next, stir in the rice, salt, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute, then mix in the tomato paste and stir for another minute.
- After that, add the diced tomatoes (with juices), broth, green chiles, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Finally, remove from heat, sprinkle with cheese, and cover for 5 minutes until melted. Garnish with green onions or cilantro and serve hot!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 358
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 17g
- Protein: 28g
Pro Tips
For an extra kick, swap Monterey Jack for pepper jack cheese or add a dash of hot sauce before serving!
Pro Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Want to take your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Toast the Rice: Lightly toasting the rice with the spices and tomato paste before adding the liquid enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb the broth more effectively.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and bell peppers add a depth of flavor that pre-packaged or frozen veggies can’t match. If you’re short on time, pre-chopped veggies from the store are a great shortcut.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: The melted cheese on top is what makes this dish irresistible. For a twist, try using a blend of Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Adjust the Heat: If you love spice, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet. For a milder version, omit the green chiles or use mild salsa instead.
- Let It Rest: After adding the cheese, let the skillet sit covered for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt evenly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it for maximum freshness:
- Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Perfect Pairings for Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet meal pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm tortillas for a satisfying meal.
- Drinks: Pair with a glass of Pumpkin Spice Latte for a cozy fall dinner or a refreshing iced tea for a summer twist.
- Desserts: End your meal on a sweet note with Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake or Eggnog Pie for a festive touch.
We hope you love this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet as much as we do! It’s a versatile, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments below and let us know if you added any personal twists. Did you spice it up with jalapeños or keep it mild for the kids? What sides did you pair it with? Your feedback and creativity inspire us and our community of home cooks!
For more delicious dinner ideas, check out our Beef Recipe Collection or try our Salmon Bake with Pecan for a seafood twist. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss our Banana Pumpkin Bread or Fluffy Bisquick Pancakes for breakfast or dessert.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Tag us on social media using #GroundBeefAndRiceSkillet and let us know how it turned out. For more exclusive recipes and cooking tips, subscribe to our newsletter below. Happy cooking!
Emma,
The Recipe Team