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One-pan meals have surged in popularity over the last few years, and for good reason. In an age where convenience is paramount, home cooks are increasingly drawn to dishes that minimize preparation and cleanup time. One-pan meals encapsulate this trend, allowing for a full meal to be cooked and served all in a single dish, which not only simplifies the cooking process but also reduces the number of utensils and cookware that need to be cleaned afterward.

One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet

Discover the delicious simplicity of One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet, a perfect meal for busy families. This hearty dish combines ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice, all topped with gooey cheese and cooked in just one skillet. It's packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a wholesome option for dinner. With easy preparation and minimal cleanup, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Enjoy a comforting meal that brings the family together!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)

1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed under cold water

2 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

1 cup frozen corn

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Base: In a large, deep skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, continuing to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pepper has softened slightly.

    Brown the Beef: Raise the heat to medium-high and incorporate the ground beef into the skillet. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns, until it is fully cooked with no pink remaining.

      Add Rice and Liquid: Stir in the rinsed rice, beef broth, and undrained diced tomatoes (making sure to include all the juices). Increase the heat to bring the ingredients to a boil, then lower the heat back to low and cover the skillet with a lid.

        Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Add the frozen corn to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking time, folding it gently into the mixture.

          Cheesy Finish: Once the rice is cooked through and the liquid is mostly absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef and rice. Cover the skillet for a few minutes, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese.

            Garnish and Serve: Fluff the beef and rice mixture with a fork to combine everything nicely. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting one-pan meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                15 minutes | 35 minutes | Serves 4