Garlic Butter Beef and Rice

This garlic butter beef and rice skillet has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need serious comfort food without the fuss. The combination of savory beef, fluffy rice, and a decadent cheddar-Parmesan sauce creates a one-pan meal that disappears in minutes every time I serve it.

I first made this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something substantial but quick. My family immediately declared it a new favorite, and now it appears on our table at least twice a month when we need something cozy and filling.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: the foundation of this dish providing rich flavor and protein 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio works best for flavor without excess grease
• Long grain white rice: creates the perfect fluffy texture that absorbs the sauce beautifully choose a quality brand for best results
• Garlic: fresh minced cloves add aromatic depth look for firm bulbs with tight skin
• Cajun seasoning: brings a complex spice blend with just the right kick use a low-sodium version if watching salt intake
• Smoked paprika: adds subtle smoky undertones that elevate the entire dish Spanish varieties offer the most authentic flavor
• Beef broth: creates the base for our sauce with rich umami notes homemade provides superior flavor but quality store-bought works well
• Heavy cream: provides luxurious richness and helps thicken the sauce full-fat delivers the best texture and prevents curdling
• Cheddar cheese: sharp varieties add the perfect tangy bite freshly grated melts much better than pre-shredded
• Parmesan cheese: brings nutty depth and thickening power always grate fresh from a block for best melting
• Butter: adds silky richness and rounds out the flavors use unsalted to control sodium levels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Rice:

Bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup of rice and a pinch of salt, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and allow to simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat but keep covered to steam for an additional 5 minutes, which ensures perfectly fluffy grains.

Brown the Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Allow the meat to develop a deep brown crust on one side before stirring, which creates richer flavor. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until completely browned. If excess fat has accumulated, carefully tilt the pan and spoon it off.

Add Flavor Base:

Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika directly to the beef. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and the garlic to become fragrant but not burned. This step blooms the spices and releases their essential oils, creating a more complex flavor profile.

Create the Sauce:

Pour beef broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These caramelized bits contain concentrated flavor. Add heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Incorporate Cheese:

Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan, stirring constantly to ensure smooth melting. Add butter and continue stirring until completely incorporated. The sauce should be velvety and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed.

Combine Components:

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, folding gently but thoroughly to ensure every grain is coated with the cheesy sauce. Allow the mixture to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes so the rice can absorb some of the sauce flavors. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately in warmed bowls for the ultimate comfort food experience.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment when the cheeses melt into the sauce, creating that irresistible creaminess that coats every grain of rice. I discovered this technique by accident when trying to salvage an otherwise bland beef and rice dish, and now my family specifically requests “that cheesy rice thing” at least once a week.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal planning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a small splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture, as the rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat rather than using a microwave, which can make the cheese sauce separate.

Simple Variations

This recipe welcomes endless customization based on what you have available. Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter alternative to beef, while adding diced bell peppers, peas, or corn brings color and nutrition. For a spicier version, increase the Cajun seasoning or add diced jalapeños. You can also swap the white rice for brown rice for additional fiber, though you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly and might need slightly more liquid.

Serving Suggestions

While this skillet stands perfectly well on its own as a complete meal, I love serving it with a simple side of roasted broccoli or a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a more substantial spread, pair it with garlic bread for sopping up any extra sauce. A cold beer or medium-bodied red wine complements the flavors beautifully for an adult dinner, while my kids enjoy it with a glass of milk that pairs well with the cheesy elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the rice from being mushy?

To avoid mushy rice, use the correct water-to-rice ratio, cook on low heat, and allow it to rest after cooking.

→ What substitutions can I make for Cajun seasoning?

If you don't have Cajun seasoning, use a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and dried herbs like thyme.

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use other rice types such as jasmine or basmati. Adjust the cooking time and liquid to match the rice requirement.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk, half-and-half, or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter option.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.