Description

When you’re short on time but still want to make a dish that’s hearty, delicious, and sure to impress, this cheesy beef and rice recipe is your secret weapon. It's a perfect go-to for busy nights when you need to whip up something fast, yet satisfying. With tender beef, savory rice, and plenty of cheese, this dish is a comforting crowd-pleaser that feels like a cheat code in the kitchen. Best of all, it’s super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the ground beef
Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As the beef cooks, break it up into small pieces with a spoon or spatula. Add 1 chopped onion and 1 minced garlic clove, cooking until the onion is softened and the beef is fully browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Season the beef
Once the beef is browned and the onions are soft, season the mixture with 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. These seasonings enhance the flavor of the beef and give the dish a rich, savory taste.

Step 3: Add rice and broth
To the beef mixture, add 1 cup of uncooked white rice and 2 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture. The broth will absorb into the rice as it cooks, creating a flavorful base for the dish.

Step 4: Add the soup and tomatoes
Stir in 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and 1 can of diced tomatoes (drained) into the skillet. The soup adds creaminess to the dish, while the tomatoes bring a tangy sweetness that balances out the flavors. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Simmer
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Step 6: Add the cheese
Once the rice is cooked and the mixture has thickened, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt, which should only take a couple of minutes. The melted cheese adds a creamy, gooey finish to the dish.

Step 7: Serve
After the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the cheesy beef and rice hot, straight from the skillet, for a comforting and easy meal

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat. You can also swap out the cheddar for a different type of cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby for a new flavor twist. And if you want to bulk up the meal, toss in some frozen peas or corn in the last few minutes of cooking!

Conclusion:
This quick and easy cheesy beef and rice dish is the perfect solution for busy nights when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a filling, flavorful dinner that’s guaranteed to please the whole family. Follow this easy recipe, and enjoy a cheesy, comforting dish that feels like a cheat code for weeknight dinners!