Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

Sometimes a bacon cheeseburger craving hits and you just want comfort food fast That is where this Bacon Cheeseburger Rice has saved my weeknight dinners so many times The flavors are all there but it is simple one pan and comes together in less than half an hour Creamy cheesy savory and packed with beef bacon and all the fixings it is an instant happiness booster

My kids actually beg for this on busy days watching them pile on extra pickles cracks me up every time They call it cheeseburger fiesta night and there are never leftovers

Ingredients

• Bacon: sliced thick smoked bacon gives the best flavor make sure it is nice and meaty for hearty bites
• Ground beef: choose beef with an eighty five percent lean ratio for juicy bites but not too greasy
• Onion: diced fresh yellow onions add natural sweetness and aroma go for firm onions with papery skins
• Garlic: minced use plump cloves for lots of savory undertones the fresher the better
• Cooked white rice: leftover rice actually works best here since it stays fluffy and separate
• Shredded cheddar cheese: go for sharp or extra sharp cheddar for tangy cheesiness
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: optional but makes it super gooey use whole milk mozzarella for meltiness
• Ketchup: basic pantry ketchup adds that classic burger zing use your favorite brand
• Yellow mustard: balances the richness with a little bright zip
• Worcestershire sauce: gives that deep burger umami choose an all-natural sauce for best taste
• Salt and pepper: use freshly ground for best results season to your liking
• Dill pickles: diced these bring crunch and tartness use cold crisp pickles for best crunch
• Green onions: for garnish fresh green onions add color and a gentle bite
• Sesame seeds: sprinkle for fun that true burger finish look for toasted white seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the bacon:

In a large skillet over medium heat add chopped bacon Let it cook slowly until golden brown and crispy stirring every couple minutes for even crisp Remove the cooked bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside but keep some bacon fat in the skillet to build flavor

Brown the beef:

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet with bacon drippings Sauté for about two minutes until the onion is soft and aromatic Stir in the ground beef season generously with salt and pepper and brown thoroughly breaking it up with a wooden spoon Hold back until the beef is cooked through and beginning to get little browned edges

Build the flavor:

Pour in ketchup yellow mustard and Worcestershire sauce Stir well to coat every bit of beef The mixture should be glossy and smell like your favorite burger stand Simmer for one minute to let everything come together

Add rice and bacon:

Turn the heat to low Add cooked rice and crispy bacon pieces into the skillet Gently toss and mix well so rice soaks up all the flavorful juices Keep fluffing and stirring until the whole skillet looks even and the rice is hot

Cheesy finish:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar all over If you want extra gooeyness add mozzarella too Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for two to three minutes Check that it is bubbly and creamy then turn off the heat

Serve:

Top the whole dish with diced pickles a handful of sliced green onions and sesame seeds Serve straight from the skillet to keep it piping hot and let everyone dig in Burger night at the table

Pin it

The crispy bacon is what my family always fights over honestly it brings that classic burger flavor home and never lets you down One time my little brother tried swapping cornichons for the dill pickles and swears it tasted just like a diner cheeseburger bowl

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator A quick zap in the microwave brings it right back to life For best texture avoid freezing as the rice can get mushy and cheese loses its stretch

Ingredient Swaps

Try ground turkey for a leaner take or ground chicken if beef is not your thing Swiss or American cheese melts beautifully too and switches up the burger style Add in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers if you want veggie power

Serving Suggestions

Pile into bowls and let everyone add extra pickles tomatoes or even shredded lettuce Serve with crunchy potato chips on the side or a quick green salad for balance

Burger Roots

Bacon cheeseburgers started as diner classics but transforming those flavors into one pan skillet rice is pure weeknight magic It keeps the spirit of backyard cookouts alive even when the grill is packed away

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use leftover rice for this dish?

Yes, leftover cooked rice works perfectly and helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy. It's a great way to save time and reduce food waste.

→ What type of cheese is best?

Cheddar brings bold cheeseburger flavor, while mozzarella adds extra meltiness. You can substitute American cheese for a classic burger taste or even add pepper jack for a spicy kick.

→ How can I make it lighter?

Replace white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice. Use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey for a lighter meal.

→ What toppings work well?

Diced pickles, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds add authentic burger-inspired flavor. Chopped tomatoes or shredded lettuce also work for a fresher touch.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep and refrigerate the components separately, then assemble and reheat when ready to serve. It holds up well and is great for leftovers.

→ Does it work as meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for weekday lunches or dinners. Keep garnishes separate for best texture.