Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

This Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is a delightful one-pan meal that combines juicy ground beef, perfectly seasoned rice, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a comforting dish without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. In just under 40 minutes, you can enjoy a rich and flavorful meal that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, Cajun seasoning, and creamy cheeses creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy flavors are sure to delight even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing without scratching your skillet’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Rice Skillet

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 cups Beef Broth
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the empty space and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in the onion powder and Cajun seasoning. Stir to coat the beef evenly in all the spices and garlic.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Broth

Pour in the uncooked rice along with the beef broth. Stir well to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer Until Cooked

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Create the Cheesy Sauce

Remove from heat. Fold in both grated parmesan and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until thickened, creamy, and all cheese has melted.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as desired. Serve immediately garnished with extra cheese or chopped parsley if you like.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

Serving your Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Green Onions: Add sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor and crunch.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for perfect dipping into the creamy sauce.
• French Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette complements the rich flavors.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and balances the richness of the skillet.
• Greek Salad: The tangy feta cheese in a Greek salad brings a contrasting flavor profile.

Serve with a Beverage

• Red Wine: A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with beef dishes, enhancing the meal’s flavor.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, serve refreshing iced tea to cleanse the palate.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

To achieve the best results with your Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger flavor than pre-minced options.
• Keep the Heat Moderate: Cooking at medium-high heat helps brown the beef without burning it.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring during simmering prevents rice from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste before serving; adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Use good quality cheddar and parmesan for maximum creaminess and flavor.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

Complementing your Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet is easy with these tasty side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and a vibrant color contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Mix seasonal vegetables, toss them in olive oil, and roast until tender for added texture.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser; grill or boil for simplicity.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness that balances out the dish’s richness.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside your flavorful skillet meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of hearty beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce can be easy, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Ignoring the garlic: Garlic adds essential flavor. Make sure to sauté it for just about a minute until fragrant; overcooking will make it bitter.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting the dish can lead to blandness. Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking rice for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
• Using low-quality beef: Using poor-quality ground beef can result in a greasy dish. Opt for lean ground beef for a better texture and flavor.
• Not allowing cheese to melt properly: If you rush this step, the sauce won’t be creamy. Fold in the cheeses slowly and allow them to melt fully for the best consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

• Allow the skillet meal to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet meal in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of beef broth or water. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice. However, adjust the cooking time since brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice.

What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?

Ground turkey or chicken makes a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option while still keeping that delicious flavor profile intact.

How do I make this Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure that your broth is gluten-free and swap regular Cajun seasoning for a gluten-free version available at most grocery stores.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to make Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce?

The entire process takes about 45 minutes from prep to serving. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

The Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. This one-pan meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep—give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy ground beef, seasoned rice, and a rich cheesy sauce—all in one pan. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, allowing you to create a delicious meal in just under 40 minutes. With its irresistible flavor profile of garlic and Cajun seasoning, this dish pleases even the pickiest eaters. Customizable with your favorite vegetables, it’s a versatile choice for any occasion. Easy preparation and minimal cleanup make it a go-to recipe that’s both satisfying and quick to whip up.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 cups Beef Broth
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté minced garlic in the skillet for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Add onion powder and Cajun seasoning; mix well.
4. Stir in uncooked rice and beef broth; bring to a gentle boil.
5. Cover and simmer on low heat for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
6. Remove from heat; fold in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Adjust seasoning as desired, serve garnished with parsley or additional cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 85mg