If you’re hungry for something rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, one bite of this Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce will win you over! Imagine juicy ground beef, perfectly seasoned rice, and a luscious, cheesy sauce all made in one skillet—dinner bliss in under 40 minutes. This easy skillet meal holds a special place at our family table because it brings people together, even on the busiest weeknights. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that leaves only one pan to wash? Fun fact: the inspiration came from my college roommate’s obsession with infusing everything with garlic butter and cheese. Compared to my ever-popular Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet, this beefy version has even more robust flavor and melty cheese appeal, making it a new weeknight favorite. Dive in and discover why this recipe will have your family asking for seconds!
What is Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce?
Let’s be honest—this dish’s name is almost as mouthwatering as the meal itself! Garlic, butter, beef, rice, cheddar, and parmesan—what else could your tastebuds possibly crave? They say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but I’m convinced this skillet is the secret path to winning over the entire family. Maybe it’s the irresistible aroma of sizzling garlic or the creamy, cheesy sauce that inspired its name—but either way, it’s a classic for good reason! Ready to settle the age-old debate of beef or cheese? Try making this skillet tonight and see which side you choose.
Why You’ll Love This
First and foremost, the main highlight is the unbeatable combo of tender beef and fluffy rice, all wrapped up in a velvety cheddar parmesan sauce. This dish transforms everyday ingredients into something comforting, filling, and indulgent, without breaking the bank. Making it at home brings serious cost savings compared to takeout or restaurant fare, especially since you can use pantry staples you already have. What truly makes this skillet shine are the rich, savory notes of real cheese, the bold Cajun seasoning, and a punchy hit of garlic you simply can’t find in packaged meals. If you loved the Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet, you’ll adore the beefy, cheesy upgrade here—try both and find your family’s new favorite! Give this recipe a try, and let it become your go-to skillet meal.
How to Make
Quick Overview
This Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet is the epitome of easy weeknight comfort! One skillet, minimal prep, and savory flavors mean you get dinner on the table in about 35 minutes. It’s flavorful enough for the grownups but kid-friendly thanks to that dreamy cheddar parmesan sauce. The combination of garlic butter, ground beef, and rice gives craveable texture and deep flavor, while the sauce ties it all together with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then drain excess fat if necessary.
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Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the empty space and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
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Sprinkle in the onion powder and Cajun seasoning, stirring to coat the beef evenly in all the spices and garlic.
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Pour in the uncooked rice and beef broth. Stir well to combine everything and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir a couple times during cooking to prevent sticking.
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Remove from heat. Fold in the grated parmesan and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce is thick, creamy, and all the cheese has melted.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or chopped parsley if you like.
What to Serve Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce With
This skillet meal is hearty on its own, but to round out your dinner, try serving it with a crisp green salad or garlicky green beans for a pop of color and crunch. Warm, buttery rolls or garlic bread also pair perfectly—ideal for scooping up that melted cheese sauce! For drinks, go simple and refreshing: iced tea, sparkling water, or a light red wine balance the richness beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient substitutions are easy: use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or swap white rice for brown (add a bit of cooking time if using brown rice).
- Don’t skip the garlic—fresh garlic makes all the difference in flavor!
- If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning.
- Watch the rice as it cooks—check for doneness and add a splash more broth if needed for creamier texture.
- For a golden, bubbly top, sprinkle extra cheese and pop the skillet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Avoid burning the garlic by adding it after browning the beef, not before.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep the rice from drying out, add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating—pop it in the microwave in 1-2 minute bursts, stirring in between. This dish also freezes well; portion out servings in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir in a bit of extra cheese to freshen up the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use another type of rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Try using brown rice or even quinoa—just adjust cooking time and liquid as needed.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
Use a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne for a homemade substitute.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a gentle kick from the Cajun seasoning, but you can reduce the amount to keep it mild for kids.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it as directed and reheat before serving. It’s even more flavorful the next day!
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Use a large skillet or Dutch oven, and double all ingredients for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is a comfort food masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again. It’s easy, flavorful, family-friendly, and perfect for those nights when you need a satisfying meal fast. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or just need reliable leftovers, this recipe brings everyone back for seconds. Give it a try, experiment with your own favorite twists, and don’t forget to check out other easy skillet meals on the blog. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (uncooked)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then drain excess fat if necessary.
- Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the empty space and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
- Sprinkle in the onion powder and Cajun seasoning, stirring to coat the beef evenly in all the spices and garlic.
- Pour in the uncooked rice and beef broth. Stir well to combine everything and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir a couple times during cooking to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat. Fold in the grated parmesan and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce is thick, creamy, and all the cheese has melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or chopped parsley if you like.