Garlic Butter Beef & Rice Skillet: The One-Pan Comfort Meal You’ll Make Again and Again
Looking for a quick, comforting, and flavor-packed dinner idea that won’t leave you with a sink full of dishes? Meet your new favorite recipe: Garlic Butter Beef & Rice Skillet. This one-pan wonder is creamy, cheesy, hearty, and bursting with flavor—all made in under 30 minutes!
Whether you’re cooking for a family or just need a satisfying solo meal, this dish hits all the marks. It’s affordable, versatile, and made with pantry staples. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Simplicity – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
- Ready in 30 Minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor – Garlic, butter, beef, and melted cheese? Yes, please.
- Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters clean their plates.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4 people
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
2. Cook the Garlic & Spices
Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your skillet.
3. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Add the Rice & Broth
Pour in the rice and stir well to coat it with all those flavorful juices. Add the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Cheese It Up
Uncover the skillet and fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle the cheddar and parmesan evenly. Stir until melted and creamy.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Add a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a full meal.
Pro Tips
- Swap ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño.
- Don’t skip the butter—it gives this dish its rich, comforting flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Nutrition Notes
Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, and this dish is packed with protein, calcium, and satisfying complex carbs. It’s comfort food you can feel good about!
What Readers Are Saying:
“This recipe saved my weeknight dinner plan! So easy and flavorful. My kids asked for seconds!”
— Sarah, California
Share Your Skillet Magic!
Tried this recipe? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram with #GarlicBeefSkillet and we might feature you on our page!