Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is a comforting one-pan meal that’s rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines ground beef, tender rice, and a luscious cheesy sauce for a satisfying dinner everyone will love.

Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Step 3: Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it for about 1 minute to enhance its flavor.
- Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, bring it to a simmer, then cover the skillet. Cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the broth has been absorbed.
- Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream, then gradually add the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses. Mix gently until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Step 6: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and combine thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 7: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of beef broth slightly or cook a few minutes longer without the lid.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess if needed.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth quantity and simmer time accordingly.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
This dish can be frozen, but the creamy sauce may change texture upon thawing. For best results, freeze without the cream and cheese, then add them fresh when reheating.
PrintGarlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce Recipe
This Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is a comforting one-pan meal combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Infused with garlic and fresh parsley, it’s an easy and flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Beef and Rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese Sauce and Garnish
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the ground beef seasoned with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice to the skillet with the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the rice to get lightly toasted for enhanced flavor.
- Cook the rice: Pour in the beef broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broth is fully absorbed.
- Make the cheese sauce: Stir in the heavy cream into the cooked rice. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
- Combine beef and simmer: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix well with the cheesy rice. Let it simmer together for 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Notes
- Use long grain or jasmine rice as recommended for optimal texture.
- To make it lower fat, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use reduced-fat cheeses.
- Ensure garlic is sautéed only until fragrant to prevent a bitter taste.
- Covering the skillet during rice cooking is essential for even steaming and absorption.
- Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days refrigerated and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
Keywords: Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet, Cheddar Parmesan Sauce, One-Pan Meal, Ground Beef Recipe, Easy Dinner

