If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that brings the whole family together, you’re going to fall in love with this Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet. It’s not just a delicious dish; it’s a nostalgic reminder of those classic cheeseburgers we all adore. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends—everyone will be asking for seconds!

This recipe combines all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness. Trust me, once you try this Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet, it will quickly become a favorite on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
One-pan wonder: Who doesn’t love minimal cleanup? Everything cooks in one skillet, so you can enjoy your meal and the time spent with loved ones.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors. It’s an excellent way to introduce new ingredients while keeping things tasty!
Versatile: You can easily adapt this dish to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. There are so many fun ways to customize it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine! You might already have most of these in your pantry or fridge.

For the Skillet

1 pound ground beef
1/2 yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
8 ounces tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
2 cups minute rice
2 cups beef broth
1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Variations

This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is incredibly flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste or dietary needs.

Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Make it vegetarian: Substitute crumbled tempeh or lentils for the meat and use vegetable broth.
Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick!

How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook until no pink is visible; this helps to develop flavor and ensures everything is cooked through. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease before seasoning with seasoned salt—this keeps the dish from being too oily!

Step 2: Mix in Sauces and Rice

Now it’s time to add in all that deliciousness! Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, minute rice, and beef broth. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every grain of rice absorbs those wonderful flavors. Bring everything to a light simmer for about 2-3 minutes until most of the broth is absorbed. This step makes sure that your rice has all those scrumptious cheeseburger flavors!

Step 3: Stir in Cheese and Bacon

Once your rice has soaked up all that goodness, it’s time to make it cheesy! Stir in half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese along with half a cup of bacon crumbles. This adds richness and creaminess to each bite.

Step 4: Melt More Cheese on Top

For the grand finale, sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon on top. Cover your skillet and let it steam for a few minutes until the cheese melts beautifully. When you lift that lid, you’ll be greeted by an inviting sight! Serve hot and enjoy this delightful twist on your favorite cheeseburger flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

Cooking can be a breeze with the right tips, so here are some helpful hints to elevate your Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet!

Use lean ground beef: Choosing lean ground beef reduces excess grease and makes the dish lighter while still maintaining that delicious meaty flavor.
Pre-cook the bacon: If you’re using store-bought bacon, pre-cooking it until it’s crispy before adding it to the skillet enhances the texture and flavor in each bite.
Customize your seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can give an extra layer of flavor to this comforting dish.
Experiment with cheese: While cheddar cheese is classic, trying out different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella can create a delightful twist on the traditional taste.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the skillet to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

How to Serve Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

This one-pan wonder is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy this comforting meal.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
Sliced green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a crunchy texture that complements the richness of the skillet.

Side Dishes

Crispy coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing balances out the hearty flavors of the skillet.
Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color while keeping things simple and healthy.
Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for a delightful side that’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your skillet.
Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet.

Enjoy your meal! Each serving is sure to bring smiles around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is not only a delightful dish for dinner, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing

Allow the skillet to cool completely before freezing.
Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to restore moisture.
Heat until warmed through, ensuring it’s hot all the way to the center.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet.

Can I use other types of meat in this Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

How can I customize my Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet?

Get creative! You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even swap out cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick. The options are endless!

Is this Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet suitable for kids?

Yes! This recipe is kid-friendly and packed with flavors they love. It’s also a great way to introduce them to new ingredients by adding veggies or swapping cheeses.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and bacon. Substitute with plant-based ground meat and add some sautéed mushrooms or black beans to keep it hearty!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings back memories of backyard barbecues and family dinners. Enjoy every bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings and sides. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!