Cheesy Beef and Rice One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Nothing beats the cozy, melty comfort of a one-pan meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe is a total game-changer—combining savory beef, tender rice, and gooey cheese into one satisfying dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.

this …

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients & Why They Work
• Make It Your Way
• Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe
• Top Tip
• How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions:
• Final Thoughts
• Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe balances hearty protein, tender rice, and creamy cheese with just the right zing. Choosing quality ingredients makes all the difference, so I always go for lean ground beef and fresh aromatics.

• Lean Ground Beef: Lean meat keeps the skillet from getting greasy but still delivers rich flavor.
• Diced Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
• Minced Garlic: Garlic provides that classic aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
• Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water infuses the rice with savory goodness as it cooks.
• Minute Rice: Quick-cooking rice makes this an achievable weeknight meal without fuss.
• Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies: Gives the dish a bright, mildly spicy kick that pairs perfectly with cheese.
• Salt, Pepper & Onion Powder: Seasoning layers flavor, keeping things balanced and tasty.
• Salsa con Queso: Creamy and cheesy, this salsa amps up the richness and adds a mild spice.
• Shredded Nacho Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, making the whole skillet irresistibly cheesy.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Don’t hesitate to tweak it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

• Variation: I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, and it still turns out delicious and cheesy.
• Spice Level: Want it hotter? Add extra green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you add the Rotel.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some diced bell peppers or corn along with the onions for more texture and color.
• Dairy-Free Option: Try using a dairy-free cheese alternative and omit the cheese sauce for those with sensitivities.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and adding the lean ground beef. I throw in the diced yellow onions right away so they cook alongside the beef, getting soft and sweet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the beef into small pieces while it browns evenly. Watch for that rich brown color—avoid cooking too fast or the onions might burn.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Build Flavor

Once the beef is fully browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Garlic burns easily, so keep things moving and don’t let it turn dark brown.

Step 3: Combine Broth, Rice & Cook

Pour in the chicken broth and add the minute rice, stirring gently so the rice is submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, cover the skillet with a lid, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This is the magic moment when the rice soaks up all that savory broth flavor.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Seasoning & Reduce Liquid

Remove the lid and stir well, then add the Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Bring the heat back up to medium and cook uncovered until the liquid has mostly evaporated—this avoids a soggy skillet and keeps the texture just right.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Salsa

Blend in the salsa con queso for creaminess, then add the shredded nacho cheese. Stir gently and just long enough to melt the cheese into a luscious layer of gooey goodness. Be careful not to overcook here—you want melty, not dried out.

Scoop into bowls, and you’re ready for a cozy, cheesy dinner feast!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish this skillet with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Sometimes a wedge of lime on the side adds a bright counterpoint to the richness. If you want a little crunch, crushed tortilla chips on top work wonders.

Side Dishes

Since the skillet is already filling, I like pairing it with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lime and olive oil. Sometimes I add a side of steamed veggies or roasted corn to round things out without overwhelming the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual party, I serve this cheesy ground beef and rice in mini cast iron skillets or colorful ramekins—it’s charming and keeps things warm. I’ve also used it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or served alongside tortilla chips for scooping, which always gets compliments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find it keeps its flavor and texture well, but it’s best reheated gently to keep the cheese melty without drying out.

Freezing

This dish freezes pretty well, too! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you thaw it, the texture might be slightly softer, but the flavors stay vibrant.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen things up, stirring often to keep the cheese smooth. The microwave works in a pinch—heat in short bursts and stir between intervals.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe has saved me on nights when I want something comforting but fuss-free. The melty cheese and savory beef combo keeps everyone coming back for seconds, and it’s one of those meals that feels effortlessly special. You should definitely give it a try—I'm sure it’ll become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine.

Print