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Step-by-step process shot showing ground beef, onions, and peppers sautéing in a skillet for the ground beef and rice recipe.
FL Recipes

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the ultimate one-pan weeknight dinner! Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy recipe combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef 85/15 or 90/10 recommended
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2.5 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese freshly shredded is best

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet (12-inch with lid)
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula
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Method
 

  1. In a large skillet with a lid, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the grains. Add the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let it cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalProtein: 28gFat: 22gFiber: 4g

Notes

Do not peek: Keep the lid on while the rice simmers to ensure it cooks evenly.
Fresh Cheese: Shred your own cheese for the best, smoothest melt.
Variations: Feel free to add 1 cup of frozen corn or black beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra texture and flavor.
Keyword easy dinner,ground beef and rice skillet,one pan meal

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