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Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner

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This cheesy ground beef and rice skillet is a quick, one-pan dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes using simple pantry staples. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups beef broth, low-sodium
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat evenly.
  3. Pour the uncooked rice into the skillet and stir for about 1 minute to toast slightly. Then add the beef broth and undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  4. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time. Check the rice; if still firm, cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
  6. Gently stir to incorporate the cheese or leave it on top for presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use long-grain white rice and grate your own cheese from a block. Do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering. If you accidentally overcook the rice, the crispy bottom can be a delicious bonus. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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