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Cozy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet: An Easy One-Pan Dinner

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This cheesy ground beef and rice skillet is a quick, one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and a creamy, savory flavor, it’s a comforting meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned (5-7 minutes). Transfer beef to a plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon drippings in the pan.
  2. Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute to toast slightly. Sprinkle in paprika, dried thyme (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to coat.
  4. Pour in beef broth and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until soup is dissolved. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Return cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  6. After 18 minutes, check rice. If tender and liquid is absorbed, proceed. If still firm, cover and cook 2-3 more minutes. If dry, add a splash more broth.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit off heat for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden top.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use long-grain white rice (not minute rice or brown rice). Toasting the rice before adding liquid helps it stay fluffy. Resist lifting the lid during simmering to ensure even cooking. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, rice, skillet, one-pan, cheesy, weeknight dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://zestynora.com/cozy-ground-beef-and-rice-skillet-an-easy-one-pan-dinner/