If you’ve ever been caught between a craving for comfort food and the need for something easy and quick, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice with Garlic Sauce is your solution. I remember the first time I made this dish it was a busy weekday evening, and I was scrambling to get dinner on the table before everyone started getting hangry. I needed something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. After a little improvising, this dish came together, and it was an instant hit. From that night on, it became a regular in our dinner rotation.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s not just delicious, it’s versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, but it can also be dressed up for a casual gathering with friends. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with the savory beef and fluffy rice creates the perfect comfort food combination. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when you want a satisfying meal without all the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just feeding your family, this dish will leave everyone full, happy, and coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
There’s something truly comforting about a dish like Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice with Garlic Sauce. The rich, creamy sauce made with tender beef, combined with fluffy rice and melted cheese, offers the ultimate cozy meal experience. What’s even better? You can make it all in one pan, meaning less mess and more time to enjoy your meal and company. The flavors are bold but balanced, with just the right amount of Cajun seasoning and garlic to elevate the dish without overpowering it.
This recipe is also easily customizable. Want to make it a bit spicier? Add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer it a little cheesier? Feel free to toss in extra cheese for that perfect gooey finish. It’s a dish that’s simple yet satisfying, making it ideal for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as great the next day, making it a win for both fresh meals and leftovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the rice.
Start by bringing about 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add your rice, cover it up, and turn the heat down to low. Let it gently simmer for about 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and all the water is absorbed. Once it’s done, set it aside and get ready for the next step!
Step 2: Brown the beef.
While the rice is working its magic, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with your spoon. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess grease, go ahead and drain it off.
Step 3: Season it up.
Add the minced garlic, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika to your beef. Stir everything together and cook for about 1–2 minutes just until the garlic is fragrant and your kitchen smells absolutely amazing.
Step 4: Make the creamy sauce.
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, giving it all a good stir. Let it come to a simmer, and allow it to cook for 3–5 minutes so the flavors can really come together and the sauce can thicken just a bit.
Step 5: Add the cheese and butter.
Now the real magic happens! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Keep stirring gently until everything is melted, gooey, and perfectly creamy. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Bring it all together.
Gently fold the cooked rice into your cheesy beef mixture, making sure every grain of rice is coated in that luscious, garlicky sauce.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy.
Spoon it into bowls, sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top, and serve it up hot. This dish is pure comfort food, perfect for any night you need something hearty and delicious!
Creative Variations:
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Vegan Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives like lentils, crumbled tofu, or vegan crumbles. Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream, and use dairy-free cheese for a completely plant-based dish.
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Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free rice and substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free penne or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Ensure the seasonings are gluten-free as well.
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Spicy Kick: If you love spice, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of chili flakes to increase the heat. You could also toss in some diced jalapeños for a fresh burst of heat.
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Cheese Lover’s Dream: Add a variety of cheeses to elevate the flavor! Try mixing in some mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a creamy, melty texture that will make this dish even more indulgent.
How to Serve:
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice with Garlic Sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes to make the meal even more complete. Consider serving it with:
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers will add some color and a healthy balance to this cheesy, rich dish. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables complement the savory beef and cheese sauce perfectly.
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Crispy Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, or a light, fresh baguette for a satisfying contrast to the richness of the dish.
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Salads: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the heaviness of the meal. Try a side of arugula or spinach with lemon dressing for a burst of freshness.
For beverages, a cold glass of iced tea, lemonade, or even a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with this dish. The bright, citrusy notes in the drink will cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce, balancing the overall flavors.
Recipe Tips:
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Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.
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Customizing Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika depending on your spice tolerance. Start with a little and taste test to add more as desired.
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Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of heavy cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.
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Adding Veggies: You can sneak in extra vegetables into this dish. Try adding peas, spinach, or bell peppers during the cooking process for more flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the garlic and onions.
Cooking Notes:
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Evenly Cook the Beef: To get perfectly cooked beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks, so it browns evenly. If it starts to stick to the pan, add a little more oil or butter.
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Cheese Consistency: Be sure to use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can contain additives that can cause the sauce to seize up and become grainy.
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Rice Texture: Make sure the rice is fully cooked and fluffy before adding it to the sauce. If the rice isn’t cooked through, the texture may affect the dish’s final outcome.
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Avoid Overcooking the Cream: When adding the heavy cream, don’t let it boil for too long; you want it to simmer just enough to thicken and combine with the other ingredients.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 550 kcal (per serving)
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 760mg
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs:
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Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just be mindful that the flavors might vary slightly based on the meat you choose. Ground chicken is a great leaner option, while pork adds a slightly sweet flavor.
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How can I make this dish less spicy? If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika. For a milder flavor, omit the Cajun seasoning entirely and use a simple seasoning like Italian seasoning or thyme. You can also leave out the optional red pepper flakes.
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Can I freeze this dish for later? Yes! This dish freezes well. Simply store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently on the stove with a little added cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Conclusion:
There’s something truly satisfying about digging into a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish like Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice with Garlic Sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or preparing for a relaxed gathering with friends, this dish brings the perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love. The rich, velvety garlic sauce combined with seasoned ground beef and perfectly cooked rice makes for a hearty meal that fills you up without weighing you down.
What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, from adding extra veggies to adjusting the spice levels. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy the company around your table. It’s also great for meal prepping, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
This dish is perfect for those who appreciate comfort food that doesn’t take hours to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a filling dinner after a busy day, this cheesy, savory meal has got you covered. With simple ingredients and easy steps, Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice with Garlic Sauce is sure to become a go-to recipe in your cooking rotation. So go ahead, make it tonight, and treat yourself to a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!
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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice with Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the rice.
Start by bringing about 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add your rice, cover it up, and turn the heat down to low. Let it gently simmer for about 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and all the water is absorbed. Once it’s done, set it aside and get ready for the next step!
Step 2: Brown the beef.
While the rice is working its magic, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with your spoon. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess grease, go ahead and drain it off.
Step 3: Season it up.
Add the minced garlic, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika to your beef. Stir everything together and cook for about 1–2 minutes — just until the garlic is fragrant and your kitchen smells absolutely amazing.
Step 4: Make the creamy sauce.
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, giving it all a good stir. Let it come to a simmer, and allow it to cook for 3–5 minutes so the flavors can really come together and the sauce can thicken just a bit.
Step 5: Add the cheese and butter.
Now the real magic happens! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Keep stirring gently until everything is melted, gooey, and perfectly creamy. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Bring it all together.
Gently fold the cooked rice into your cheesy beef mixture, making sure every grain of rice is coated in that luscious, garlicky sauce.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy.
Spoon it into bowls, sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top, and serve it up hot. This dish is pure comfort food, perfect for any night you need something hearty and delicious!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Sodium: 760
- Protein: 28