Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When dinner needs to be both comforting and quick, this garlic butter beef and rice skillet delivers with layers of flavor. The sizzle of ground beef cooked in garlic butter sets the stage, while fluffy rice absorbs all the savory goodness. And just when you think it can’t get better, a rich cheddar Parmesan sauce comes in to blanket everything in creamy delight.

This one-pan wonder is exactly what weeknight meals should be: minimal prep, hearty portions, and a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids, cooking for two, or meal prepping, this skillet has the balance of comfort and convenience that makes it a repeat favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet

This skillet dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and filling without hours at the stove. The combination of beef and rice makes it satisfying, and the cheddar Parmesan sauce elevates it to a crave-worthy meal. It also reheats beautifully, making leftovers something to look forward to.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

Any white rice works well here, but long grain rice gives the best texture in a skillet dish. It holds up well to the beef and sauce without getting mushy. If you’re using brown rice or instant, just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet

The ingredients for this dish are simple pantry and fridge staples, but together they create a rich, satisfying meal.

• Ground beef
• Cooked white rice
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Onion
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Heavy cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Milk
• All-purpose flour

How To Make the Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Stir in the Rice

Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the cooked white rice. Let it warm up and absorb the garlic butter mixture.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt more butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until the sauce is creamy and fully melted.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Pour the cheese sauce over the beef and rice mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat evenly. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Serve hot.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Skillet

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve it right out of the skillet for a rustic presentation. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet?

Sautéed Green Beans

A light and crisp side to contrast the richness of the skillet.

Mixed Greens Salad

Keep it fresh with a vinaigrette-based salad.

Garlic Bread

Because more garlic never hurts, especially when used to scoop up cheesy rice.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli adds a delicious crunch and earthiness.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn balances out the savory flavors beautifully.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Adds a slightly sweet counterbalance to the meal.

Pickled Vegetables

Bright and tangy pickles can cut through the creamy texture for a refreshing bite.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you love the simplicity of this cheesy beef and rice skillet, you’ll want to try these satisfying recipes too:

• One-Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is bold, spicy, and creamy in every bite.
• Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken offers a crispy, flavorful twist with buttery ranch seasoning.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini combines two comfort food favorites in one hearty dish.
• Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas bring bold flavors and melty cheese into every bite.
• Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake delivers indulgence with every creamy forkful.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up or keep it classic? Add some veggies or double the sauce?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new weeknight go-to.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?