Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Meal
Everything cooks in the same skillet. Easy cleanup.
Super Cheesy
Melted cheddar in every bite.
Family Friendly
Kids and adults both love it.
Budget Friendly
Simple ingredients, big portions.
Great for Leftovers
Tastes even better next day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked white rice
- 500 g ground beef
- 6–8 strips bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano
Optional extras:
- corn
- mushrooms
- jalapeños
- green onions
- parsley
Ingredient Tips
Ground Beef
Use 80/20 for best flavor and juiciness.
Bacon
Adds smoky crunch and deep flavor.
Cheese
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and tastes rich.
Broth
Gives more flavor than plain water.
Simple ingredients → BIG taste.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan with lid
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Use a wide pan so rice cooks evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Bacon
Heat skillet on medium.
Add chopped bacon.
Cook until crispy and golden.
Remove and set aside.
Leave bacon fat in the pan — this adds AMAZING flavor.
Step 2 – Brown the Beef
In the same pan add ground beef.
Break it apart with spoon.
Cook until browned.
Drain excess grease if needed.
This creates rich meaty flavor.
Step 3 – Add Vegetables
Add:
- onion
- bell pepper
- garlic
Cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
Your kitchen will smell incredible here 😍
This builds flavor base.
Step 4 – Add Rice and Seasoning
Add:
- uncooked rice
- spices
Stir well.
Toast rice for 1–2 minutes.
This gives nuttier flavor and prevents mushiness.
Step 5 – Add Liquids
Pour in:
- beef broth
- tomato sauce
Stir everything.
Bring to gentle boil.
Then reduce heat to low.
Cover with lid.
Simmer 15–18 minutes.
Do NOT stir too much.
Let rice absorb liquid.
Step 6 – Add Bacon and Cheese
Once rice is tender:
Stir bacon back in.
Sprinkle cheese generously on top.
Cover again.
Cook 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
You’ll see gooey, bubbly cheese everywhere 🤤
Step 7 – Rest and Serve
Turn off heat.
Let sit 5 minutes.
This helps rice finish cooking and flavors settle.
Serve warm.
Texture Guide
Perfect skillet should be:
✔ tender rice
✔ juicy beef
✔ crispy bacon bits
✔ melted cheesy top
✔ not watery
✔ not dry
If too wet → cook uncovered 2–3 min
If dry → add splash broth
Flavor Variations
Mexican Style
Add taco seasoning + corn + salsa.
Spicy
Add jalapeños + hot sauce.
Creamy
Mix in cream cheese or sour cream.
Veggie
Add mushrooms or zucchini.
Extra Cheesy
Mix mozzarella + cheddar.
Super easy to customize.
Serving Ideas
This dish is already complete, but you can add:
Sides
- salad
- garlic bread
- steamed veggies
Toppings
- sour cream
- green onions
- avocado
- hot sauce
Wrap Style
Stuff inside tortillas.
Bowl Style
Top with fried egg.
So many ways to enjoy.
Storage Tips
Fridge: 4 days
Freezer: 2 months
Reheat:
microwave or skillet with splash of water.
Still cheesy and delicious.
Perfect for meal prep.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Toast Rice First
Improves flavor and texture.
Use Broth Instead of Water
Huge flavor difference.
Don’t Overstir
Makes rice mushy.
Let It Rest
Helps rice finish cooking.
Use Big Pan
Prevents soggy rice.
Why This Recipe Always Wins
This cheesy beef and bacon rice skillet is everything you want in comfort food: warm, rich, cheesy, filling, and satisfying. It’s easy enough for weeknights but delicious enough for guests.
Plus, it’s made with everyday ingredients you already have.
One pan. Big flavor. Zero stress.
And honestly… melted cheese on top of rice and beef? That’s always a yes 😂
Final Thoughts
If you want a quick, cozy, and crowd-pleasing dinner that everyone loves, this one-pan cheesy rice skillet is perfect. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of cheesy goodness.