Can I use brown rice in cheesy ground beef and rice skillet?

Yes, you can use brown rice. However, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. You may need to add more broth or water and simmer for a longer period until the rice is tender.

What kind of cheese is best for a cheesy ground beef and rice skillet?

Cheddar cheese is a classic and popular choice, but other good options include Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor.

How do I prevent the rice from being mushy in my skillet?

To avoid mushy rice, rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Also, use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio specified in your recipe and avoid overcooking. Once the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes to allow any remaining moisture to distribute evenly.

Can I add vegetables to my cheesy ground beef and rice skillet?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables enhances the nutritional value and flavor of the skillet. Good choices include diced bell peppers, onions (which are often already included), corn, peas, carrots, or even spinach. Add them during the cooking process to allow them to soften.

Can I make this skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheesy ground beef and rice skillet ahead of time. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. You may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

How can I make this skillet spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate ingredients like diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce into the skillet. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Your Family Will Beg For 2026

Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10); 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 1/2 cups beef broth, low-sodium; 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked; 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

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A one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese for a complete, comforting meal. Ready in about 35 minutes with simple ingredients, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 25min
Total Time: 35min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: dinner
Method: stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups beef broth, low-sodium
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 cup frozen corn kernels
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef, until meat is browned and onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add minced garlic, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Stir in the uncooked rice and frozen corn. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid. The liquid should be absorbed and rice tender.
Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover again for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt.
Fluff the mixture gently with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve.

Notes

Do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering to ensure it cooks properly. For a lower-carb option, substitute riced cauliflower added in the last 5-7 minutes. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 700
Fat: 17
Saturated Fat: 8
Unsaturated Fat: 7
Trans Fat: 0.5
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 2
Protein: 28
Cholesterol: 80

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/cheesy-ground-beef-rice-skillet/