Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

Bacon Cheeseburger Rice is a fast family favorite that captures everything you love about a bacon cheeseburger but in comforting skillet form. It is rich with savory beef, crisp bacon, melty cheddar, and just enough tang from ketchup and mustard to bring the whole dish together. Whenever I want to make everyone smile on a busy night, this recipe always wins the table.

I still remember making this after a long day when everyone was hungry and grumpy. The aroma alone turned the kitchen into a happy place and my kids begged for seconds that night.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives heartiness and flavor Choose beef with a little fat for best taste
• Yellow onion: adds a subtle sweetness Chop finely so it melts into the rice
• Minced garlic: for a punchy background flavor Use fresh garlic for best results
• Seasoned salt: ties the dish together Look for one with herbs not just plain salt
• Tomato sauce: creates a saucy base Pick a plain smooth variety for best texture
• Ketchup: brings tangy sweetness Go for a classic thick ketchup
• Yellow mustard: brightens the whole skillet A mild classic American mustard fits perfectly
• Minute rice: keeps the meal fast and fluffy Look for long grain style
• Beef broth: deepens the savory notes Use low sodium for more control
• Cooked bacon: layers in smoky richness Crisp it fresh and cut in bite-sized pieces
• Cheddar cheese: melts into creaminess Shred your own for perfect melt and fuller taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

In your largest skillet place the ground beef and diced onion together over medium-high heat Mix frequently and cook for about eight to ten minutes until the beef is fully brown and the onions are soft and see through This slow browning will build a deep flavor

Add Garlic and Season:

Once beef is cooked and onions are tender add the minced garlic and keep cooking for another full minute Stir constantly so the garlic just turns fragrant and does not burn Then sprinkle in the seasoned salt and mix very well

Combine the Saucy Ingredients:

Pour in the tomato sauce ketchup and yellow mustard Stir to coat all the beef in this rich sauce then add in the minute rice and beef broth

Simmer to Cook the Rice:

Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer and lower the heat Watch closely and stir every so often The rice will soak up the liquid in about two to three minutes making sure everything stays moist not dry

Cheese and Bacon Layer:

Once the rice has absorbed the broth stir in half of the shredded cheese and half of the chopped bacon This helps the cheesy bacon flavor get into every bite Taste and add extra salt if needed here

Finish with Toppings:

Sprinkle the rest of the cheese and bacon over the top Cover the skillet with a lid or foil The trapped heat will steam and melt the cheese beautifully in two to four minutes Serve right from the skillet piping hot

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I always look forward to the gooey pockets of cheese tucked throughout the rice For me the best bites are the ones where the bacon crispness meets creamy cheddar because it reminds me of all the backyard cookouts my family loved in summer

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool then scoop into airtight containers This rice will keep in the fridge for three days Reheat right in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of broth to refresh the texture It freezes surprisingly well too so you can make it in advance Have single portions ready for busy lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter skillet Instead of cheddar try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder creamy finish If you cannot have bacon turkey bacon or even a meatless bacon substitute will keep the essence

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Serving Suggestions

Top each bowl with pickles for a real cheeseburger feel It pairs nicely with a crisp green salad or crunch up kettle chips for a fun twist Sometimes I even put a small dollop of extra mustard on each serving for a little tang

Cultural or Historical Context

This dish is inspired by classic American diner burgers but it gets weeknight speed from the rice skillet method These kinds of recipes became popular as families needed quick but hearty meals in the middle of the twentieth century It keeps the feeling of a burger night but with the ease of a homestyle casserole

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different kind of rice?

Minute rice is fastest, but you can use long-grain white rice. Adjust broth and simmer time as needed for absorption.

→ How do I get extra crispy bacon?

Cook bacon separately until extra crisp before adding. Reserve some for topping at the end for added crunch.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare as directed. Store covered; reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

→ Is there a way to make this meal vegetarian?

Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetarian broth. Substitute a meatless bacon alternative if desired.

→ What cheese works best?

Cheddar melts well and adds classic flavor, but Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend are also delicious choices.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Stir in diced peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas along with the onions for added flavor and color.