Description
Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped green onions
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain.
Mix in seasonings and stir well.
Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and rice. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
Remove from heat, top with shredded cheese, and cover to let it melt.
Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
#OnePanMeal
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains. Carefully drain any excess grease.
2. Season the Base: Return the skillet to the heat. Add the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir for one minute until fragrant.
3. Combine and Simmer: Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook the Rice: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and cook for 18-20 minutes. Do not stir during this time. The rice should be tender and the liquid absorbed.
5. Add Cheese & Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 3-5 minutes, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is a complete dish on its own, but you can easily round it out. Serve it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a textural contrast, offer a bowl of crispy tortilla chips or crusty garlic bread. A dollop of cool sour cream or creamy avocado slices on top adds a delightful finishing touch.
How-to Summary
Brown beef, drain fat. Add seasonings. Stir in broth, tomatoes, and rice. Cover and simmer for 20 mins until rice is cooked. Top with cheese, cover to melt, and garnish with green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, but adjust liquid and time. For white jasmine rice, use 1 ¼ cups broth and cook for 15-18 mins. For brown rice, use 2 cups broth and extend cooking to 40-45 mins.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add ½ teaspoon of chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes with the other seasonings. You can also use a can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies instead of plain tomatoes.
Is it okay to lift the lid while the rice is cooking? Avoid it if possible. Every time you lift the lid, you release steam and heat, which can extend the cooking time and result in unevenly cooked rice.
Can I add vegetables? Absolutely. Add 1 cup of frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers when you add the broth and tomatoes. For heartier veggies like broccoli, sauté them briefly with the beef.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Beef: Excess grease will make the final dish oily. Always drain after browning.
- Using the Wrong Rice: Instant or pre-cooked rice will become mushy. Stick to long-grain white rice for the specified time.
- Stirring While Simmering: This releases starch from the rice, creating a gummy texture. Stir only at the beginning and end.
- Incorrect Heat Level: Cooking over too high heat will burn the bottom before the rice is done. Maintain a low simmer once covered.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight, delivering maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize the dish to your taste. It’s a reliably delicious, family-friendly one-pan meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.