Easy Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet: A 30-Minute Dinner Solution

Need a quick and delicious dinner idea? This easy cheesy beef and rice skillet is your go-to solution. Packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, hearty ground beef, and melty cheese, this one-pan dish is ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a no-fuss meal!

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (200g) cooked or canned corn (drained)
• 1 ½ cups (300g) cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup (120ml) beef or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)

Optional toppings:

• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream

How to Make a Quick Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet

1. Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté Vegetables

1. Add chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Flavor

1. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and veggies with spices.

4. Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, corn, and broth to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.

5. Add Cheese and Melt

1. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the skillet.
2. Cover and cook on low heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

1. Top with chopped cilantro, jalapeños, or sour cream for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Nights

• Quick Cooking: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• One-Pan Cleanup: Saves time in the kitchen with fewer dishes to wash.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy, flavorful dish is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked rice from previous meals.
• Customize the Heat Level: Add extra chili powder or fresh chilies for more spice, or keep it mild for kids.
• Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or pinto beans for a plant-based version.

FAQs About Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop before serving.

2. What if I don’t have fresh bell peppers?
Frozen diced peppers or any other vegetable, like zucchini or carrots, can work as substitutes.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when ready to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy beef and rice skillet combines convenience and flavor into one satisfying meal. It’s customizable, quick to prepare, and a fantastic way to use up ingredients you already have in your pantry.

Try this easy cheesy beef and rice skillet recipe tonight and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free meal. Let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!