Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet

Cheesy beef and rice skillet always comes out bubbling and rich with bold layers of flavor The ground beef is deeply seasoned and the jasmine rice soaks up tomato sauce and broth for a luscious one pan dinner At my house this skillet is the quickest way to satisfy big comfort food cravings even on the busiest nights

The first time I made this on a rushed Tuesday it disappeared before I could even set out the tortillas Now my son asks for it every week and I never mind because clean up is a breeze

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Adds richness and hearty protein opt for freshly ground for juicy flavor
• Onion: Brings natural sweetness use yellow or white for best results
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for flavor control fresh cracked pepper wakes it up
• Cayenne pepper: Adds just the right mild heat use more or less to suit your spice level
• Ground cumin: Lends earthy undertones pick up a fresh jar for boldest taste
• Dried cilantro: Infuses a gentle herbal note fresh is great but dried gives deeper background flavor
• Chili powder: Balances everything with mild chili spice always smell your chili powder if it smells dull grab new
• Minced garlic: Gives a savory depth use fresh for a pungent kick jarred works in a pinch
• Tomato sauce: Provides deep tang and saucy body unsalted varieties let you control the flavor
• Beef broth: Adds body and big savory flavor grab a low sodium carton for flexibility
• Jasmine rice: Unique aroma and fluffy grains rinse well to avoid stickiness
• Olive oil: Helps toast the rice and enhances all flavors pick a good quality bottle
• White queso cheese dip: Creamy topping that pulls it all together store bought or homemade both work
• Flour tortillas: For scooping wrapping or serving on the side always warm them for best texture
• Pico de gallo: Fresh crunchy brightness that cuts the richness try homemade for the best burst
• Fresh cilantro: Bright herbal lift at the finish chop just before serving for max flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onions:

Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium high heat until the beef is browned and onion is softened Season with salt black pepper cayenne cumin dried cilantro and chili powder Break up any big chunks and stir until the beef is evenly seasoned and fragrant Once the meat is cooked drain off the excess grease to avoid sogginess

Toast the Rice:

Push the cooked beef to the edges of the pan Pour the olive oil into the cleared center Add the rinsed uncooked jasmine rice Use a spatula to stir the rice in the oil for a minute or two until it smells lightly nutty Toasting adds a subtle layer of flavor and helps keep the grains from clumping

Simmer with Liquid:

Add the tomato sauce the minced garlic and the beef broth Pour everything in at once and give the skillet a thorough stir to incorporate all the flavors Bring the mixture to a lively boil so the rice can start absorbing the broth

Cook Gently with Lid On:

As soon as bubbling starts cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium low Let it cook undisturbed for about twenty minutes Check that the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender all the way through

Fluff and Rest:

When the rice is done turn off the heat Fluff everything gently with a fork Cover again and let the skillet sit for five minutes This relaxes the rice grains for perfect texture

Top and Serve:

Warm the queso dip until smooth and pourable Drizzle generously over the hot beef and rice Sprinkle with plenty of chopped cilantro Serve right out of the pan or spoon into flour tortillas Add a scoop of pico de gallo for a refreshing finish

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I am always amazed by how the fresh cilantro on top wakes up all the flavors Cilantro was my grandma’s favorite so I always add extra and it reminds me of her generous hand in the kitchen

Storage Tips

This skillet keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days Let it cool fully then scoop into airtight containers For reheating add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist and microwave or gently warm on the stovetop The queso is best added fresh after reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Lean ground turkey or chicken are excellent swaps for beef For a vegetarian version use cooked lentils or crumbled tofu instead of meat If you do not have jasmine rice use long grain white rice just rinse it well first The aromatics work with red or yellow onion and a pinch of smoked paprika adds another layer if you want deeper flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve straight from the skillet for true comfort Add warm tortillas on the side for scooping or rolling This meal goes great with a light salad or charred street corn If you want to make it a party offer extra hot sauce limes sliced avocado or even pickled jalapenos

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Cultural and Historical Context

This dish takes inspiration from both classic American comfort food and Tex Mex one pan rice meals Cheesy beef skillet dinners became popular for their ease in the mid century kitchen Today the flavors nod to Southwest and Mexican American traditions adding the queso and cilantro for a touch of modern flair

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?

Use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet, and stir the rice after adding to coat it in oil before simmering with liquid. Avoid high heat after adding broth.

→ What type of beef works best?

Lean ground beef is ideal, as it cooks quickly and doesn’t leave too much grease. Drain excess fat after browning for best results.

→ Can I use a different kind of rice?

Yes, long-grain white rice or basmati both work well. Adjust liquid ratios and cook times if you choose brown rice.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase cayenne pepper, add diced jalapeños during cooking, or serve with extra hot sauce and spicy pico de gallo.

→ What toppings go well with this skillet?

Aside from queso and cilantro, try sliced avocado, sour cream, pickled onions, or shredded lettuce for added flavor and texture.