Name: Garlic Butter Beef Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 450 g ground beef; 200 g long-grain white rice; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 Tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp onion powder; 1½ Tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 360 ml beef broth; 240 ml heavy cream; 100 g shredded cheddar cheese; 40 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

A creamy, one-pan comfort dinner that blends tender ground beef, garlic, fluffy rice, and a cheesy butter sauce for a no-fuss, hearty meal. Garlic Butter Beef Rice Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this comes together in one pan—less cleanup, more flavor. It’s rich and savory with a hint of Cajun warmth from smoked paprika and seasoning. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights, using pantry staples as the base.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

450 g ground beef
200 g long-grain white rice
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
1½ Tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
360 ml beef broth
240 ml heavy cream
100 g shredded cheddar cheese
40 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Rinse the rice under cold water. In a saucepan, bring about 480 ml of water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Let it rest for 5 minutes off the heat, then fluff with a fork.
While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, break it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the minced garlic, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Mix until everything is melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Gently fold in the cooked rice until fully combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Lower-carb version: I like swapping the white rice for cauliflower rice to keep it lighter.
Spicier twist: I sometimes add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Extra vegetables: I toss in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers near the end for more nutrition.
Different protein: Ground turkey or chicken works great in place of beef for a leaner version.

Storage / reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQs

How spicy is this recipe?

The Cajun seasoning gives it a mild kick. I usually keep it balanced, but it’s easy to adjust to taste.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

I prefer freshly grated cheese because it melts smoother, but pre-shredded works if I’m short on time.

Does the rice get mushy?

Not if I cook and fluff it properly first. Mixing it in gently keeps the texture just right.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, I sometimes make it ahead and reheat later with a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.

Can this be frozen?

I don’t recommend freezing it since the cream and rice can change texture. It’s best enjoyed within a few days from the fridge.

Conclusion

This garlic butter beef rice skillet is one of my favorite easy meals. It’s warm, flavorful, and filling—all made in one pan. I love how adaptable it is and how it always hits the spot when I need something cozy and satisfying.