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When time is short and appetites are big, quick and easy recipes with ground beef are the ultimate weeknight heroes. This cheesy beef and rice skillet combines savoury ground beef, tender rice, colourful bell peppers, and melted cheddar into one glorious pan. Everything cooks together in about 30 minutes, creating a comforting crust on the bottom and a gooey, cheesy top. It’s a fuss‑free dinner that uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand, and clean‑up is a breeze. Say goodbye to stressful evenings and hello to your new favourite ground beef dinner!
Dinner
Easy
Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet
This cheesy beef and rice skillet is the ultimate quick and easy ground beef recipe, loaded with flavour and ready in just 30 minutes. A one‑pan wonder your family will love!
Ingredients
4
💡 Chef Tip
Use freshly shredded cheese from a block rather than pre‑shredded – it melts smoother and gives you that irresistible gooey pull.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving
Calories
450 kcal
Protein
28 g
Carbs
42 g
Fat
17 g
Fiber
3 g
Sugar
5 g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Instructions
1
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat and return beef to the skillet.
2
Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften, about 3‑4 minutes.
3
Add minced garlic and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4
Pour in the uncooked rice and stir to coat with the oil and spices.
5
Add the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in salt and black pepper.
6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
7
Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it sit for 3‑5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot directly from the skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Use 2¼ cups of broth and simmer for about 35‑40 minutes, checking for tenderness.
Chicken broth or vegetable broth work well. If using water, increase the salt and seasoning slightly to maintain flavour.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, diced fresh jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce with the tomatoes. You can also use pepper jack cheese.
Absolutely. Diced zucchini, corn, or chopped spinach are great additions. Stir them in when adding the tomatoes so they cook through.
You can freeze the cooked beef‑rice mixture (without the cheese) in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, reheat, and add fresh cheese on top.
All the fresh ingredients needed for one‑pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✓ One‑pan meal – minimal cleanup
✓ Ready in 30 minutes
✓ Kid‑friendly and picky‑eater approved
✓ Customizable with your favourite veggies
Equipment Needed
🧰 Large skillet with a lid (12‑inch recommended)
🧰 Measuring cups and spoons
🧰 Wooden spoon or spatula
Recipe Notes
🧊 Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth.
⏰ Make Ahead Tips
Brown the ground beef and dice the vegetables up to a day ahead. Store separately in the fridge, then finish the recipe in about 20 minutes.
🍴 Kitchen Picks
Helpful tools that make this recipe easier and more enjoyable.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker
Perfect for quick meals and versatile cooking methods, including pressure cooking, which is ideal for ground beef recipes.
Lodge 12-Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
Great for cooking ground beef and other one-pan meals, providing even heat retention.
Hamilton Beach Panini Press Sandwich Maker
Useful for quickly making sandwiches with ground beef, enhancing meal options.
A steaming bowl of Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
📋 Recipe Summary
⏱️
30 Min
30 Min
👨🍳
Easy
Easy
🍽️
4 Servings
4 Servings
🔥
450 kcal
450 kcal
- ✓ One‑pan meal – minimal cleanup
- ✓ Ready in 30 minutes
- ✓ Kid‑friendly and picky‑eater approved
- ✓ Customizable with your favourite veggies
I hope this dish becomes a regular in your rotation of quick and easy recipes with ground beef. It’s proof that you can get a hearty, homemade meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you need a last‑minute dinner idea or simply want to satisfy a cheesy comfort‑food craving, this skillet delivers every time. Experiment with your favourite vegetables or a different blend of cheeses to make it your own. For more fast and flavourful dinners, don’t forget to try my One‑Pan Honey Mustard Chicken – another family favourite ready in a flash!
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