This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice is a one-skillet wonder that brings all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger into a hearty, comforting dish. Packed with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheddar cheese, and perfectly cooked rice, this recipe is quick, easy, and sure to satisfy the whole family. It’s like having a cheeseburger in rice form—perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings!
📋 Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- ½ medium yellow onion , diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 cups instant rice (like Minute Rice)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cooked bacon , chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese , shredded
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat . Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook for 6–8 minutes , breaking up the meat with a spatula, until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute , until fragrant. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 2: Season and Build the Base
- Season the beef mixture with seasoned salt .
- Add the tomato sauce , ketchup , yellow mustard , instant rice , and beef broth to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Simmer the Rice
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the broth is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 4: Add the First Layer of Cheese and Bacon
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in ½ cup of the shredded cheese and ½ cup of the chopped bacon until the cheese melts into the rice, creating a creamy, cheesy base.
Step 5: Top and Melt the Remaining Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese and ½ cup of chopped bacon evenly over the top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the residual heat to melt the cheese on top.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the lid and serve the Bacon Cheeseburger Rice immediately while it’s hot, melty, and full of flavor.
- Enjoy this comforting dish as-is or pair it with a side of pickles, chips, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Bacon Prep: Cook the bacon ahead of time and chop it into small pieces for even distribution. You can also use pre-cooked bacon bits for convenience.
- Cheese Options: Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Customize It: Add diced pickles, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for extra tang and spice.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice if needed.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Note that the texture of the rice may change slightly after freezing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice is a flavor-packed, one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese creates a satisfying dish that tastes just like your favorite cheeseburger—but with a fun, rice-based twist. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or whipping up dinner for the family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Dive into this cheesy, beefy goodness and let it bring comfort and joy to your table!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: ~25–30 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~450 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and ingredients)
