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One Pot Cheesy Beef Rice

One Pot Cheesy Beef Rice

One Pot Cheesy Beef Rice is a hearty and comforting dinner recipe that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked long grain rice, and melted cheddar cheese simmered together in a single pot. This quick and fuss-free meal is packed with rich flavors, creamy texture, and offers one-pot convenience, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup long grain rice (uncooked)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Herbs and Spices

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh)
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed. Then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
  2. Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked long grain rice, coating it well with the beef and aromatics. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Season with salt, black pepper, and any optional spices like paprika or chili flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Simmer Until Rice is Tender: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot tightly with a lid. Let the rice cook gently for about 20-25 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to keep steam trapped inside for even cooking.
  4. Stir in Cheese and Finish: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Let the dish sit covered for a few minutes to let the cheese settle and flavors meld.

Notes

  • Use fresh onion and garlic for the best flavor instead of powders.
  • Don’t skip browning the meat to deepen the flavor.
  • Long grain rice helps prevent mushiness and keeps the dish’s texture perfect.
  • Use a well-fitting lid to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes off the heat before serving for optimal flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, beef rice, cheesy beef rice, quick dinner, comfort food, easy weeknight meal, ground beef recipe