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This bacon cheeseburger rice skillet captures everything I love about a classic cheeseburger but with the comfort and ease of a one-pan weeknight dinner. Savory ground beef, crispy bacon, cheddar, and instant rice combine for a meal that is both deeply satisfying and incredibly simple to whip up. When my kids asked for cheeseburgers in January, this was my answer and now it is our go-to whenever I need something hearty and fast.
I remember the first time I made this after a long day at work. Everyone devoured it and went back for seconds. Even picky eaters will ask for this again.
Ingredients
- Ground beef 80 20 blend: This gives the right balance of juicy flavor and ensures the dish is not too dry. Choose freshly ground beef from your butcher if possible.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth. Look for onions that are firm and free from dark spots.
- Fresh garlic minced: Lifts all the meaty flavors and makes the dish so aromatic. Use fresh cloves for best results.
- Seasoned salt: Brings all the ingredients together. Pick a blend without too much sodium for control.
- Tomato sauce: Provides moisture and that subtle tanginess. Choose a plain sauce with no added sugar for better flavor.
- Ketchup: Layers in extra tomatoey sweetness. Go for a classic brand you trust.
- Yellow mustard: The classic cheeseburger touch. Do not substitute with Dijon as the flavor is too sharp.
- Instant rice: This is what brings it together fast. Instant rice cooks through evenly in just a few minutes.
- Beef broth: Keeps the rice fluffy and brings a slow-cooked richness. Choose low sodium so you can control the salt.
- Cooked bacon chopped: The signature crispy bits for smokiness and texture. Use thick sliced bacon for the best bite.
- Sharp cheddar cheese shredded: Melts beautifully and brings that classic cheeseburger flavor. Freshly grated always melts better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Soften the Onion:
- Place a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add ground beef and the diced onion. Let these cook together for about six to eight minutes. Use your spatula to gently break up the meat while stirring so it becomes evenly browned. Keep cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions have softened and become golden around the edges. This step is key for building flavor.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning:
- Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the minced garlic. Stir and let the garlic cook for about one minute. It should be fragrant but not browned. Season the mixture with seasoned salt and mix well. Drain off any extra grease at this stage so your final dish is never heavy or oily.
- Incorporate Sauces and Rice:
- Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, instant rice, and beef broth. Take time to stir thoroughly so every grain of rice gets covered and all the saucy flavors blend. This is where your rice will soak up the taste of a real cheeseburger.
- Simmer Until Rice is Tender:
- Turn the heat down slightly. Allow the whole skillet to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for two to three minutes. Stir now and then, watching as the broth gets absorbed and the rice turns soft and fluffy.
- Add Half the Cheese and Bacon:
- Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle in half the shredded cheddar and half the chopped bacon. Mix everything so the cheese melts into the rice and the bacon gets evenly distributed, adding creaminess and crunch in every bite.
- Top with Remaining Cheese and Bacon:
- Scatter the leftover cheese and bacon on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid so the steam can work its magic. Wait two to three minutes as the cheese turns gooey and irresistible right on top.
- Serve and Enjoy Hot:
- Take off the lid and dish up while it is still steaming and melty. Every bowl tastes just like your favorite bacon cheeseburger but with the cozy twist of rice.
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The bacon here is my favorite thing about the whole dish. I always use extrathick slices cooked until super crisp then crumble them over the top so each bite is smoky and a little crunchy. The smile on my daughter’s face the first time she tried it will always be one of my favorite kitchen memories.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to keep the rice moist and fluffy. This meal also freezes well in single portions for a future quick dinner. Warm it gently so the cheese stays creamy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Turkey bacon can work if you want a lower fat option but go for classic pork bacon for full flavor. If you do not have instant rice use precooked white or brown rice and reduce broth to just enough for moisture then skip simmering step. Feel free to use Colby Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Top bowls with extra sliced green onions or chopped pickles for a true burger feel. I like to serve this with a simple green salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette or a side of crunchy slaw. It can also fill tortillas to make cheesy wraps one of my favorite lunch swaps.
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Cultural Context
This skillet is a play on classic American diner food putting the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in a cozy skillet casserole. Recipes like this became popular for busy families who wanted nostalgia and flavor without the mess of grilling. If you like cheeseburger casseroles this takes things up a notch with real layers of flavor in every spoonful.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use regular long grain rice instead of instant rice?
Instant rice cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors well. If using regular rice, be aware that it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more broth to ensure the grains become tender.
- → Is it necessary to drain the beef after cooking?
Yes, draining the excess grease is important. It keeps the final dish from turning out greasy and ensures the flavors remain balanced.
- → Can I prepare the bacon in advance?
Absolutely! Cooking and chopping the bacon ahead of time streamlines the process, making this dish even quicker to prepare at dinnertime.
- → Which kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese gives a robust flavor and melts smoothly, but you can substitute with your favorite blend like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder profile.
- → How well does this meal reheat?
This skillet meal reheats beautifully in the microwave, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep throughout the week.