The moment you take a whiff of Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice, your senses will be swept away. Imagine velvety beef swimming in a luscious garlic butter sauce, mingling with rich cheddar cheese, all atop a bed of perfectly cooked rice. This dish is the culinary equivalent of wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket after a long day. It’s the kind of meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter cheese bombs recipe.
Let me take you back to that unforgettable family dinner when I served this dish for the first time. The table was set, the aroma wafted through the air, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. The moment they tasted it, I was met with smiles and satisfied nods. It was love at first bite! Whether it’s a chilly evening or just another weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic butter beef and cheddar rice is quick to make, perfect for busy nights
- Packed with flavor and comforting textures, it’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors
- Plus, it’s versatile; serve as a main dish or as an impressive side
Family and friends were raving about this dish for days; they couldn’t get enough!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while maintaining flavor and moisture. For more inspiration, check out this hearty ground beef casserole recipe.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add a robust flavor; crushed or minced works best.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning of the dish; it enhances richness beautifully.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor; feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties.
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Rice: Long-grain white rice cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well; basmati works wonderfully too.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking.
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Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth to keep the dish from getting too salty while adding depth.
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Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley elevate the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter until melted, then toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Brown the Beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula until no pink remains—about 5-7 minutes.
Add Rice and Broth: Stir in rinsed rice followed by beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil while scraping up any tasty bits stuck on the bottom of the pan.
Simmer Until Perfectly Cooked: Lower heat to a simmer, cover, and let cook for approximately 15 minutes until rice absorbs liquid completely. Stay attentive so it doesn’t stick!
Melt in Cheese Goodness: Once rice is tender, remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into creamy perfection—this is where magic happens.
Final Seasoning Touches: Taste your masterpiece before serving; adjust salt or pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for added color.
Now that you’ve successfully created this delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice, gather your loved ones around the table! Enjoy each bite as laughter fills the air. Trust me; you’ll want seconds!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic butter beef and cheddar rice dish brings together rich flavors and comforting textures
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it can satisfy even the pickiest eaters
- The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the dinner table, eager to dig in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef with garlic, followed by simmering rice in that delicious mixture. This sequence ensures everything melds beautifully for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the beef for chicken or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Personalize it to suit your palate!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make this creamy garlic butter beef and cheddar rice truly delightful, remember to use quality ingredients and don’t rush the cooking process
- Allow flavors to develop while ensuring each component shines through in this crowd-pleaser dish
Cooking this dish reminds me of a potluck where everyone raved about how creamy and flavorful it was, leaving me with a heart full of joy and an empty serving bowl.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
What can I substitute for beef?
Chicken, turkey, or even tofu work well for a lighter option.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for a kick!
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice is a comforting, hearty meal that combines tender ground beef in a rich garlic butter sauce with melted cheddar cheese over fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, offering a delightful explosion of flavors that will have everyone craving more. Easy to prepare and satisfying, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes).
- Stir in the rinsed rice and beef broth. Bring to a gentle boil while scraping any bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Lower heat to simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until rice absorbs all liquid.
- Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
