Cheesy Queso Ground Beef Rice

Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice is just the comfort food you need after a busy day. One pot brings together juicy ground beef, fluffy rice, zesty tomatoes with chilies, gooey nacho cheese, and creamy queso for an easy weeknight dinner that never disappoints my crew.

I first made this on a weeknight when groceries were low and time was tight. Now my family asks for it every time cooler weather rolls in because it feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: brings hearty protein and cooks up tender Choose a package with less fat for the best texture
• Diced yellow onion: sweetens and deepens the flavor Pick a firm onion with papery skin and no green sprouts
• Minced garlic: brightens up every bite Fresh or jarred both work
• Chicken broth: infuses the rice with savory flavor Use low sodium if you like to control saltiness
• Minute rice: saves tons of time and fluffs up nicely Make sure it says instant or minute on the label
• Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies: add tang and mild heat Shake the can to blend and pick a name brand for reliable flavor
• Salt and pepper: balance the richness Freshly cracked pepper really pops
• Onion powder: doubles the sweet savory hint Look for fine powder with no caking
• Salsa con queso: creamy velvety cheese sauce Store bought versions save time and add bold flavor
• Shredded nacho cheese: melts fast and makes the top golden yellow Pre-shredded works fine but fresh grated is super gooey

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onions:

Drop the ground beef into a large skillet over medium high heat Sprinkle in diced onions Stir everything together and cook while breaking up the meat You want the beef to brown evenly with the onions turning soft and lightly golden This usually takes about six minutes

Add Garlic:

Toss in the minced garlic Stir well and let it sizzle for about two minutes This step is key for getting that deep savory fragrance

Add Broth and Rice:

Pour in chicken broth Add the minute rice Stir gently to make sure every grain is submerged under the liquid This helps cook the rice evenly

Simmer Covered:

Bring everything up to a gentle boil Place a lid on the skillet Reduce the heat to low Let it all steam for five minutes This softens and cooks the rice while infusing the flavors together

Season and Add Tomatoes:

Take off the lid and stir well Add the Rotel tomatoes with chilies Sprinkle in salt pepper and onion powder Stir again Turn heat back up to medium so the remaining liquid can gently cook away

Cook Down to Thicken:

Keep it on the stove until there is no longer liquid in the pan Stir occasionally so the rice does not stick You want a creamy but not soupy texture

Fold in Queso:

Spoon in the salsa con queso Stir until everything is velvety and evenly coated

Melt in the Cheese:

Add in shredded nacho cheese Stir until it melts into the dish making it creamy and gooey throughout

Scoop and Serve:

Dish up generous scoops while warm Everything should be melted and combined for perfect forkfuls

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One of my favorite moments is watching the cheese melt in at the end It smells so comforting and reminds me of family movie nights when everyone gathers for a big bowl

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If you want to freeze let cool and store in a freezer safe bag for up to one month Just thaw and reheat gently with a splash of broth to bring back creaminess

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist Try pepper jack or Monterey Jack if you prefer less spice Vegetarian versions work with black beans and extra veggies instead of beef

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tortilla chips for crunchy scoops or spoon straight into bowls Top with chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream For extra zip add jalapeño slices or serve alongside a simple green salad

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Quick Family History

Cheesy skillet dinners like this stretch back to the casseroles my grandmother made after school We never used measuring cups in her house just an eye for what looked generous enough to satisfy everyone This dish brings back those all together vibes in under thirty minutes

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular long grain rice instead of minute rice?

You can substitute regular long grain rice, but increase the cooking time and liquid accordingly to ensure the rice cooks through fully.

→ How spicy is the final dish?

The spice level is moderate due to Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. For more heat, add extra chilies or spicy salsa con queso.

→ What toppings work well with this meal?

Great toppings include fresh cilantro, diced avocados, sour cream, jalapeños, or extra shredded cheese for an added burst of flavor.

→ Can I make this meal ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat gently. Add a splash of broth or water while reheating to maintain creaminess.

→ Is there a substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken works well as alternatives to ground beef for a lighter variation of this dish.