Name: Garlic Butter Beef and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked); 3 cups beef broth; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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This garlic butter beef and rice is one of my favorite one-pan comfort meals. Juicy ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy cheddar-parmesan sauce come together in a rich, garlicky butter base. It’s filling, cheesy, and full of flavor, all made in a single skillet for easy cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how cozy and satisfying this dish is—it’s like a cross between cheesy risotto and a hearty beef skillet. The garlic butter adds depth, the beef makes it hearty, and the cheese ties it all together into creamy goodness. Since it’s all cooked in one pan, it’s the kind of recipe I reach for when I want something delicious without a pile of dishes afterward.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
3 cups beef broth
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

I heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef, draining excess fat if needed. I season it lightly with salt and pepper.
I push the beef to the side of the skillet, melt the butter, and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
I stir in the uncooked rice, onion powder, and paprika, toasting the rice for 1–2 minutes.
I pour in the beef broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. I cover and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
I stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until creamy.
I garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It usually takes me 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so dinner is ready in around 35 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If I want extra veggies, I stir in peas, broccoli, or spinach toward the end of cooking. For a spicy kick, I add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. I’ve also made this with brown rice, but I adjust the cooking time since it takes longer to soften.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creaminess. The microwave works for quick reheating, though I stir halfway through so it heats evenly. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, but I reduce the cooking time since instant rice cooks much faster.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, I can leave out the cheese for a lighter version, though it won’t be as creamy.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I brown the beef first, then add everything except the cheese to the slow cooker and cook on low for about 3–4 hours. I stir in the cheese just before serving.

What can I serve with this?

I usually serve it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I often double it when cooking for a crowd—just make sure to use a large enough skillet or pot.

Conclusion

This garlic butter beef and rice is one of my ultimate comfort food recipes. I love how creamy, garlicky, and cheesy it is while still being so easy to make in one pan. It’s hearty enough for dinner on its own, but also versatile enough to pair with simple sides. For busy nights or cozy meals, this dish never disappoints.