A creamy, cheesy one-pan dish with savory ground beef and tender rice — the perfect comfort food for weeknights.
1 lb ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
2 ½ cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp dried thyme or oregano
Optional: ½ cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add ground beef. Brown until fully cooked, 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
Stir in rice, broth, and optional tomato sauce. Bring to boil.
Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.
Remove from heat. Stir in cheese until melted and creamy.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Add vegetables like bell pepper or peas for extra nutrition.
For a spicier version, include hot sauce or chili flakes.
Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.