Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

Bacon Cheeseburger Rice is the answer when I want a comforting meal that hits those classic burger cravings but still comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup. Every bite really does taste like a cheeseburger, but it all cooks up quickly with pantry staples and minimal fuss.

I remember the first time I tried this at a family potluck—the whole thing vanished before I could grab seconds I now make it for busy nights and picky eaters always ask for more

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives you classic burger flavor Look for bright red beef with minimal liquid
• Yellow onion: adds sweetness and aroma Choose firm onions without soft spots
• Minced garlic: boosts richness and savoriness Use fresh garlic for best flavor
• Seasoned salt: brings everything together Read the label for a blend without additives
• Tomato sauce: thickens and adds tang Use plain pure tomato sauce for clean taste
• Ketchup: adds extra sweetness and depth Choose a thicker ketchup for best results
• Yellow mustard: brightens things up Classic yellow mustard works best here
• Minute rice: cooks quickly and absorbs flavor Brown rice works too but needs a longer cook time
• Beef broth: adds deep savory notes Use low sodium broth to control saltiness
• Cooked bacon: delivers that signature smoky bacon punch Crisp your bacon well before chopping
• Cheddar cheese: melts in for creaminess and sharpness Go for a medium or sharp cheddar and shred fresh if you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Meat and Onions:

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat Add ground beef and onion Cook slowly until the beef is fully browned and the onion softens about eight to ten minutes Break up the beef as it cooks

Add Garlic and Season:

Once the meat is no longer pink add in the minced garlic Stir constantly for about one minute so the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned Sprinkle with seasoned salt making sure the meat is evenly coated

Drain and Combine Sauces:

Carefully drain off excess grease from the skillet Now stir in the tomato sauce ketchup and yellow mustard Mix thoroughly so the beef is coated and the sauce is evenly distributed

Mix in Rice and Broth:

Pour in the minute rice and beef broth Stir gently Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer Reduce heat to low and cover Let this simmer for about three to five minutes or until the broth is mostly absorbed by the rice

Add Cheese and Bacon:

Once the rice is tender stir in half the shredded cheese and half the chopped bacon Allow them to melt and blend into the mixture

Finish with Toppings:

Sprinkle the rest of the cheese and bacon on top Cover the skillet again for two to three minutes so the cheese melts and gets gooey Serve the skillet hot

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My kids absolutely lose their minds over the melted cheddar in this dish The way it stretches when you lift out a scoop always brings them running to the kitchen One time my toddler insisted on calling it cheeseburger magic rice and the name has stuck ever since

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge The rice can soak up more liquid as it sits so a splash of beef broth when reheating on the stove helps bring back that creamy skillet texture This meal also freezes well portion into single servings and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey for a leaner version or a plant based substitute if needed You can use any type of rice just adjust the liquids to match package directions for long grain or brown rice If you want extra veggies diced bell peppers or frozen peas blend in nicely and do not change the overall flavor

Serving Suggestions

This meal stands alone but sometimes I serve it in big bowls with a pile of crisp pickles and a simple green salad My family loves extra ketchup and mustard on the side Set it out with toasted buns or scoop over baked potatoes for a fun twist the leftovers even make a great filling for stuffed peppers

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Cultural and Historical Context

Bacon cheeseburger rice may not be a traditional dish but it is a great example of how American comfort food evolves Classic drive in flavors get turned into one pot wonders in busy family kitchens This spin lets you enjoy the memory of summer cookouts right at the dinner table no grill required

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute with long grain or brown rice. Adjust liquid amounts and cook time as needed for your chosen variety.

→ What toppings go well with this dish?

Popular additions include diced pickles, sliced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or a drizzle of extra ketchup and mustard.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Absolutely. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

→ Is it possible to make this meal ahead?

Yes. Prepare as directed, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat just before serving and add a bit more cheese or bacon if desired.

→ How do I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef or turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and add vegetables like bell pepper or spinach to increase nutrition.