Description
A comforting and savory Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet recipe that combines ground beef, aromatic garlic, and tender rice in a creamy cheese sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this one-pan meal is perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
Beef and Rice Mixture
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter until foaming, then add the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent, which releases their sweetness and enhances the dish's flavor.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Garlic: Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet to create a cleared space. Add the minced garlic to this space and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic flavor infuses the dish without burning.
- Combine Rice and Seasonings: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to coat the rice with the flavorful beef drippings and seasonings.
- Simmer the Rice: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: While the rice cooks, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the whole milk and warm gently. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until a smooth, creamy sauce forms without lumps.
- Combine and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and pour the cheese sauce over the beef and rice mixture. Fold gently to combine all the flavors without breaking the rice. Let the dish rest uncovered for 2-3 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or use reduced-fat cheeses.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- To add vegetables, consider stirring in frozen peas or diced bell peppers along with the onions.
- Make sure to keep the skillet covered tightly while simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
