One Pan Cheesy Beef has become my ultimate weeknight hero, rescuing me from countless “what’s for dinner?” dilemmas! I remember the first time I made this; the aroma of seasoned ground beef and melting cheese filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cozy family dinners. This one-pan cheesy beef skillet is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug after a long day. It’s so simple yet incredibly flavorful, making it the perfect easy ground beef dinner for any busy evening. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and the minimal cleanup involved. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Cheesy Beef
I know you’ll fall in love with this One Pan Cheesy Beef recipe for so many reasons. It’s truly a game-changer for weeknight meals, bringing both flavor and convenience to your table. Here’s why I think you’ll adore it:
- Incredible Taste: The rich, savory ground beef combined with tender rice and gooey melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that everyone will crave.
- Super Quick Prep: With minimal chopping and one pan, you’ll have dinner ready in under 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Effortless Cleanup: Since everything cooks in a single skillet, washing up is a breeze. This means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing!
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients like ground beef and rice, this dish is kind to your wallet without sacrificing taste.
- Family-Friendly: This comforting easy cheesy beef casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. My kids always ask for seconds!
- Nutrient-Packed: Filled with protein from the beef and fiber from the vegetables, it’s a wholesome and satisfying meal.
- Versatile: It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a truly adaptable easy cheesy beef casserole that fits any preference.
Ingredients for One Pan Cheesy Beef
To create this incredible ground beef and cheese skillet recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. I love how accessible everything is, making this a go-to meal for any night of the week. Each component plays a crucial role in building the rich flavors of this dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – I usually opt for 80/20 for the best flavor, but leaner works too.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice – make sure to rinse it well under cold water to prevent stickiness.
- 1 medium onion, finely diced – about 1 cup, adds a sweet and savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic punch.
- 1 bell pepper, diced – any color works, I love red for a pop of color and sweetness.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – don’t drain the juices; they add crucial liquid and a touch of heat.
- 2 cups beef broth – this is key for cooking the rice and infusing flavor throughout.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – plus extra for topping, because who doesn’t love more cheese?
- 1 tsp paprika – for a warm, smoky flavor.
- 1 tsp ground cumin – adds an earthy depth.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – a classic herb that complements beef beautifully.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – season generously!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish – totally optional, but I think it adds a lovely fresh finish.
How to Make One Pan Cheesy Beef
Making this incredible One Pan Cheesy Beef is surprisingly simple, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready in no time. This is my go-to for a satisfying cheesy beef dinner one pan meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
- Step 1: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your 1 lb (450g) ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish light and flavorful.
- Step 2: To the browned beef, stir in the finely diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper starts to soften. The aroma filling your kitchen right now is just the beginning of this fantastic cheesy beef dinner one pan.
- Step 3: Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle the paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, and a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir everything thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in those wonderful spices. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your One Pan Cheesy Beef.
- Step 4: Add the rinsed long-grain white rice to the skillet, stirring it briefly to combine with the seasoned beef and vegetables. Next, pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (juices included!) and the 2 cups of beef broth. Give it a good stir to mix everything well.
- Step 5: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. This crucial step allows the rice to cook perfectly, absorbing all the delicious liquids and infusing every grain with flavor, making for a truly spectacular One Pan Cheesy Beef.
- Step 6: After the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and gloriously incorporated throughout the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—sometimes a little extra salt or pepper makes all the difference.
- Step 7: To serve, I love to sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if you have some. Dish out this hearty One Pan Cheesy Beef directly from the skillet and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Cheesy Beef
I’ve made this One Pan Cheesy Beef so many times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to make it absolutely perfect every single time. These simple tips will elevate your dish from good to unforgettable, ensuring your cheesy beef dinner is always a hit.
- Always use a good quality, heavy-bottomed skillet. This helps with even heat distribution and prevents sticking.
- Don’t skip rinsing the rice! It removes excess starch, leading to fluffier, less gummy rice in your One Pan Cheesy Beef.
- For an extra layer of flavor, try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones. It adds a subtle smokiness.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking, off the heat, before stirring in the cheese. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt perfectly without becoming oily.
What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Cheesy Beef?
The real secret lies in not overcooking the ground beef and letting the rice truly absorb all those delicious liquids. This creates a deeply flavorful and incredibly tender dish. A simple cheesy ground beef meal like this benefits from patience during the simmer, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.
Can I make One Pan Cheesy Beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ground beef and vegetable mixture (steps 1-3) ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, just add the rice, tomatoes, and broth, then continue with the recipe. This is a fantastic way to streamline your dinner prep for this delicious One Pan Cheesy Beef.
How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Cheesy Beef?
The most common errors are not draining excess fat from the beef, which can make the dish greasy, and lifting the lid too often while the rice simmers, which extends cooking time. Also, make sure your heat is truly low during the simmer to prevent the bottom from burning and ensure even rice cooking in your One Pan Cheesy Beef.
Best Ways to Serve One Pan Cheesy Beef
Once your incredible One Pan Cheesy Beef is ready, the serving possibilities are endless! I love how versatile this dish is, making it easy to pair with various sides for a complete and satisfying meal. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy this comforting skillet:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the beef and cheese. It adds a refreshing crunch and a touch of brightness.
- Warm Tortillas or Crusty Bread: For scooping up every last bit of that delicious, cheesy goodness, warm flour tortillas or a slice of crusty bread are ideal. It turns this into the best one-pan beef dish for a hearty, comforting experience.
- Steamed Vegetables: If you want to boost your veggie intake, a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus pairs wonderfully. Their clean flavors complement the savory beef without overpowering it.
No matter how you serve it, this One Pan Cheesy Beef is sure to be a hit!
Nutrition Facts for One Pan Cheesy Beef
I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious One Pan Cheesy Beef. Here’s what you can expect per serving (this recipe makes 4 generous servings) for this hearty and satisfying meal:
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the leanness of your ground beef or the brand of cheese.
How to Store and Reheat One Pan Cheesy Beef
One of the best things about this One Pan Cheesy Beef is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. I always make a little extra of this delicious one-pot cheesy beef dinner to have on hand for quick lunches or another easy weeknight meal.
First, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature. This is important to prevent moisture buildup and keep it fresh. Transfer any leftover One Pan Cheesy Beef into an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze it! Portion the cooled One Pan Cheesy Beef into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, I usually opt for the microwave for individual servings, heating until warmed through. For larger portions, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems a bit dry. This ensures your one-pot cheesy beef dinner tastes just as good as the first time!
Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Cheesy Beef
Can I use a different type of rice for One Pan Cheesy Beef?
While I prefer long-grain white rice for its texture and cooking time in this One Pan Cheesy Beef, you can experiment! Brown rice will work, but it will require more liquid (usually an additional 1/2 to 1 cup of broth) and a longer simmer time, typically around 40-45 minutes. Basmati or jasmine rice can also be used with similar cooking times to white rice.
What if I don’t have diced tomatoes with green chilies?
No problem! You can easily substitute regular diced tomatoes. To get a similar flavor profile and a subtle kick for your cheesy ground beef skillet meal, I recommend adding about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper, depending on your preferred spice level. A tablespoon of mild green chilies (canned) can also be added.
Can I add more vegetables to my One Pan Cheesy Beef?
Absolutely! This One Pan Cheesy Beef is very flexible. I often add frozen corn or peas during the last 5-10 minutes of simmering, or finely chopped zucchini or mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can affect the rice cooking properly and make your hearty cheesy ground beef skillet meal too watery.
How can I make this One Pan Cheesy Beef spicier?
If you like a little more heat in your One Pan Cheesy Beef, there are a few easy ways to spice it up! You can add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the spices. For even more flavor, try adding a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when you sauté the onions and bell peppers. This will give your cheesy ground beef skillet meal an extra kick that I personally love.
Variations of One Pan Cheesy Beef You Can Try
I absolutely love how adaptable this One Pan Cheesy Beef recipe is! It’s one of my favorite beef and cheese skillet ideas because you can easily tweak it to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish truly your own.
- Spicy Fiesta Beef: For those who love a kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices. You could also swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy One Pan Cheesy Beef.
- Veggie-Packed Skillet: Boost the nutrition by incorporating extra vegetables. I often add a handful of frozen corn, black beans, or even some diced zucchini along with the bell peppers. This makes for a more colorful and hearty meal.
- Creamy Deluxe Version: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream along with the shredded cheddar at the end. This creates an even richer, more indulgent One Pan Cheesy Beef texture that’s absolutely divine.
- Smoky BBQ Twist: Replace half of the beef broth with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor profile. This variation works wonderfully with a side of coleslaw and is a fantastic beef and cheese skillet idea for a comfort food night.
Amazing One Pan Cheesy Beef in 35 Minutes!
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Discover the deliciousness of One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet, a perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. This satisfying dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheddar cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and even easier to clean up, this recipe is family-friendly and packed with nutrients. Enjoy a cozy meal that brings everyone together with minimal effort. Try it tonight!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed under cold water
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color for vibrancy)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juices)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the beef is browned. If there is excess fat, drain it off.
- Add Vegetables: To the skillet, stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the spices.
- Incorporate Rice and Broth: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the beef broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Covered: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook through and absorb most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese: After the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: For an appealing finish, top with extra shredded cheese if desired, and sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the dish. Serve warm directly from the skillet to enjoy a hearty meal.
Notes
- Consider opting for leaner cuts of ground beef to reduce excess fat without sacrificing taste.
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties for a better melt.
- When adding cheese, remove the skillet from heat before stirring to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
- To make this cheesy beef skillet gluten-free, ensure your rice is certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450-500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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