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Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet in 20 Minutes

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A quick and satisfying one-skillet meal with ground beef, rice, and melted cheddar cheese, ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
  • 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart, for about 5 minutes. Leave about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Push the beef and onions to one side. Add the tomato paste to the empty space and cook for 30 seconds, stirring. Mix everything together with the paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour in the rice and stir to coat. Then add the beef broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer for 12 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  6. After 12 minutes, check the rice. If still soupy, cook uncovered for 1-2 more minutes. If dry but rice isn’t done, add 2-3 tablespoons water and cook covered for 2 more minutes.
  7. Remove from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 1 minute to melt the cheese.
  8. Remove lid, gently stir to incorporate the cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, grate your own cheese from a block to avoid anti-caking agents. Do not stir the rice once the broth is added to prevent gumminess. Let the skillet rest off the heat for 2-3 minutes before serving for better texture and flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, rice, cheddar, skillet, quick dinner, weeknight meal, cheesy, one pan

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/easy-cheesy-ground-beef-and-rice-skillet-in-20-minutes/