Garlic Butter Beef and Rice

This garlic butter beef and rice skillet has saved me countless weeknight dinners when I need something satisfying that the whole family will devour. The combination of savory beef, tender rice, and that irresistible cheddar parmesan sauce creates the ultimate comfort food that comes together in one pan.

I first created this recipe when my kids were going through a phase of refusing anything that wasn't mac and cheese. The rich cheese sauce over hearty beef and rice became an instant hit, and now it's requested at least twice a month in our home.

Ingredients

• Ground beef Use 85/15 lean to fat ratio for the best flavor while not being too greasy
• Long grain white rice Provides the perfect texture that absorbs all the savory flavors
• Beef broth Forms the flavorful base that the rice cooks in look for low sodium to control salt levels
• Onion Adds sweetness and depth to the dish choose firm onions with no soft spots
• Garlic Essential for that aromatic punch fresh cloves yield much better flavor than pre-minced
• Butter Creates richness throughout the dish use unsalted to control sodium
• Cheddar cheese Provides that classic sharp flavor freshly shredded melts better than pre-packaged
• Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty salty dimension that elevates the sauce
• Milk Creates the perfect creamy consistency whole milk works best
• Italian seasoning Provides a balanced herb blend without needing multiple spice jars
• Fresh parsley Adds brightness and color to the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the aromatics

Heat your largest skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter until it starts to foam. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and slightly golden at the edges. This builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish.

Brown the beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until no pink remains and the meat has developed some brown caramelized bits. These browned bits are packed with flavor. If there's excessive fat, tilt the pan and spoon it out, but leave a little for flavor.

Add garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for exactly one minute, stirring constantly. This brief cooking releases the aromatic oils without burning the garlic, which would create bitterness.

Combine rice and liquids

Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the rice is completely submerged and no grains are stuck to the sides of the pan.

Simmer to perfection

Bring the mixture to a bubbling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Resist the urge to peek or stir during this time, as the rice needs the trapped steam to cook properly.

Make the cheese sauce

While the rice cooks, prepare your sauce. In a separate saucepan over low heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, pour in the milk and warm it for about 2 minutes. Add both cheeses and stir continuously in a figure-eight motion until completely smooth and velvety. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk.

Combine everything

Once the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, pour the luxurious cheese sauce over the beef and rice mixture. Gently fold everything together until the sauce is evenly distributed throughout.

Final touches

Let the combined dish cook uncovered for 2-3 more minutes, which allows the flavors to meld and any excess liquid to evaporate. The consistency should be creamy but not soupy.

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The secret to this dish is definitely in that cheese sauce. I spent years making one-pot meals that were just fine, but creating that separate cheese sauce instead of just sprinkling cheese on top transformed this from a basic weeknight dinner to something my family truly craves.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture, as the rice will continue absorbing liquid as it sits. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave at 70% power in 30-second intervals.

Simple Variations

This recipe welcomes easy customization based on what you have on hand. Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully as a leaner alternative to beef. For added nutrition, stir in a cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Spice lovers can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a pleasant kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty skillet meal with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete comfort food experience, pair with garlic bread for sopping up any remaining cheese sauce. This dish also works wonderfully packed into lunch containers for the next day, as the flavors continue to develop overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and potentially more broth. Adjust accordingly.

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and reheat it. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

You can add diced bell peppers, peas, spinach, or mushrooms while cooking the rice for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?

Yes, but you'll need to reduce the broth and adjust cooking times since the rice is already cooked.