Garlic Butter Beef and Rice

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A one-pan comfort classic — tender rice, savory beef, and a silky garlic butter cheese sauce come together for an easy, hearty dinner.

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Dietary Badges: Contains Dairy, Contains Gluten-Free Option (with GF broth)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Ground beef (450g)

  • Long-grain white rice, uncooked (200g)

  • Low-sodium beef broth (720ml)

  • Small onion, diced

  • Garlic cloves, minced

Dairy and Cheese

  • Butter, divided (45g total)

  • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (120g)

  • Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (50g)

  • Whole milk (120ml)

Seasoning and Garnish

  • Salt, to taste

  • Black pepper, to taste

  • Italian seasoning (1 tsp)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp, optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 15g butter. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until translucent.

  2. Brown Beef: Add ground beef and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

  3. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic; cook 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. Add Rice & Liquid: Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well so rice is evenly coated.

  5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and most liquid absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often.

  6. Make Cheese Sauce: While rice cooks, melt remaining 30g butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add milk, cheddar, and Parmesan, stirring constantly until smooth.

  7. Combine: Pour cheese sauce into skillet with beef and rice; stir until creamy and fully combined.

  8. Finish & Serve: Cook uncovered 2–3 minutes for flavors to meld. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes:

  • For extra flavor, toast the uncooked rice in the skillet for 1–2 minutes before adding broth.

  • Add veggies like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for variety.

Brief Introduction

This garlic butter beef and rice is comfort food at its finest — one pan, simple steps, and flavors that hit all the right notes. The creamy cheese sauce elevates it from weeknight meal to irresistible family favorite.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Building the Base

  1. Onion & Beef: Create a savory foundation with sautéed onions and browned beef.

  2. Garlic Boost: Add minced garlic for that warm, aromatic kick.

Cooking the Rice

  1. Simmer to Tender: Let rice absorb broth and seasonings for a flavorful, fluffy finish.

Cheese Sauce Magic

  1. Low & Slow: Melt butter, milk, cheddar, and Parmesan over low heat, whisking constantly until smooth.

Final Blend

  1. Creamy Finish: Stir the sauce into the beef-rice mix and serve while hot and melty.

Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips

  • Beef: Use lean beef for less grease; ground turkey or chicken works too.

  • Rice: Long-grain holds its shape best; jasmine adds a subtle floral note.

  • Cheddar & Parmesan: Freshly shredded melts smoother than pre-packaged.

  • Milk: Swap with half-and-half for richer sauce.

  • Italian Seasoning: Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach or broccoli before adding cheese sauce.

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

  • Serving Ideas: Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread.

Storage & Make-Ahead Information

  • Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze in portions up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

  • Reheating: Microwave gently, stirring occasionally; add a splash of milk if needed.

  • Make-Ahead: Cook rice and beef mixture ahead; reheat with fresh cheese sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, 6 servings)

Calories: ~430 kcal | Carbs: 32g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 24g | Sodium: 640mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, but increase broth to 900ml and simmer for 35–40 minutes.

Q: Can I skip the cheese sauce?
A: Yes — you’ll have a flavorful garlic butter beef and rice without the creamy element.

Q: How do I keep the sauce smooth?
A: Use low heat and constant stirring to prevent separation or graininess.

Personal Story

I first made this dish as a quick dinner after a busy workday. The cheesy garlic butter sauce was a last-minute addition — and it turned a simple beef and rice skillet into something that tasted like a hug in a bowl.

If you want, I can also create step-by-step photo captions so this is fully ready for the “visual guide” section of your blog posts. Would you like me to prepare those?

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