Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

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If you’re craving comfort food that comes together in a single skillet, this Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is about to become your weeknight hero. Juicy bites of seasoned beef, tender rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce infused with garlic butter make every forkful indulgent yet familiar.

This dish is the perfect solution for when you want something hearty without a pile of dishes. The layers of flavor build quickly, and the creamy cheddar parmesan sauce brings everything together into a satisfying, family-friendly meal.

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What Kind of Rice Works Best for This Skillet?

For the creamiest and fluffiest result, opt for long-grain white rice or jasmine rice. These varieties absorb flavor beautifully and don’t clump up too much. You can use cooked rice if you’re short on time, but cooking it directly in the skillet allows it to soak up all the garlicky, cheesy goodness.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

Ground beef – The star protein, adding richness and hearty texture.

White rice – Acts as the base, absorbing the buttery, savory flavors.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses deep, savory warmth.

Butter – Essential for that creamy garlic butter essence.

Beef broth – Helps cook the rice while adding depth.

Heavy cream – Gives the cheese sauce its luscious texture.

Cheddar cheese – Adds bold, sharp flavor.

Parmesan cheese – Boosts the umami and saltiness.

Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley brings freshness and color.

Salt & black pepper – To taste, balancing all the savory elements.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Infuse the Garlic Butter

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This builds the base flavor for the whole dish.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Pour in the uncooked white rice and toast it slightly for 1 minute to enhance the nutty flavor. Then add the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and reduce heat, letting it cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Once the rice is ready, stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through before gradually adding the cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Stir until fully melted and the sauce turns silky.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix everything to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, with extra parmesan if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Beef and Rice

This skillet meal is best served hot, right after cooking, when the cheese is gooey and the butter aroma is at its peak. You can pair it with a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or even some warm bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

To store leftovers, allow the skillet to cool completely. Then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For freezing, portion it out and wrap tightly for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the garlic for a kick of heat.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage all work well as substitutes for ground beef.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked rice?

Definitely. Just reduce the broth to half and add the rice after sautéing the garlic. Stir in the cream and cheese as usual.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Swap the beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I keep the cheese sauce from clumping?

Make sure the cream is warm before adding cheese, and stir constantly over low heat until fully melted.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this garlic butter beef and rice skillet, you’ll probably enjoy these other one-pan or creamy dinner favorites:

• Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken with rice for bright, tangy richness.
• One-Pan Tuscan Shrimp Pasta for a seafood twist.
• Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole with all the classic comfort, no stuffing needed.
• Beef Stroganoff Meatballs for savory, creamy flavor bombs.
• Parmesan Herb Chicken and Orzo Skillet for a quick weeknight winner.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra with the cheese? Add mushrooms or a touch of spice?

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

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