Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice

Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice is an easy one-pot dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights. This satisfying dish combines savory ground beef with minute rice, flavorful Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, creamy salsa con queso, and melty nacho cheese. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and quick preparation time. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together in just one pan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 27 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weeknights.
• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Flavor Packed: A delightful blend of spices, cheese, and tomatoes brings every bite to life.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right kitchen tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without damaging your cookware.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Ensure accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Liquid Ingredients

• 2 cups chicken broth

Rice Ingredients

• 2 cups minute rice

Flavorful Additions

• 10.5 oz Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

Cheesy Components

• 1 cup salsa con queso
• 2 cups shredded nacho cheese

How to Make Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Drop the lean ground beef into a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onions to the skillet and stir well.
3. Continue cooking and crumbling the ground beef until it is fully browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

1. Add the minced garlic to the skillet.
2. Stir well and continue cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Broth

1. Pour in the chicken broth along with the minute rice.
2. Gently stir until all of the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer

1. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Place a lid on the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

1. After 5 minutes, remove the lid and stir well.
2. Add the Rotel tomatoes, salt, pepper, and onion powder to the skillet.
3. Stir well again and increase heat to medium.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

1. Continue cooking until no liquid remains at the bottom of the skillet.
2. Stir in the salsa con queso until well combined.
3. Finally, add the shredded cheese; stir just until melted.

Step 7: Serve

Scoop out portions of this delicious Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice onto plates or bowls, serve hot, and enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice

Serving Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice can elevate your dining experience. This versatile dish appeals to both adults and kids, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Toppings to Consider

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and balances the spices.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with its herbal notes.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, jalapeños provide heat and flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the cheesy richness beautifully.

Accompaniments

• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are great for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness and freshness to each bite.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime can enhance flavors with a zesty touch.

Presentation Ideas

• In a Bowl: Serve in individual bowls for a cozy feel at the table.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, scoop the mixture into lettuce leaves for a fresh twist.

How to Perfect Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice

Perfecting your Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice ensures every bite is delightful. Follow these tips to make your dish even better.

• Use Lean Meat: Choosing lean ground beef reduces excess grease while maintaining flavor.
• Cook Rice Thoroughly: Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding cheese to avoid clumping.
• Stir Consistently: Stirring helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to add more spices according to your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice

Pairing side dishes with Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options that complement this hearty main course.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant salad featuring sweet corn, lime, cotija cheese, and spices.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips.
3. Refried Beans: Traditional refried beans offer protein and heartiness alongside your main dish.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of queso beef.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Lightly flavored rice enhances the overall taste while keeping things fresh.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrition, making your plate more appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef properly can lead to a less flavorful dish. Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned before proceeding.
• Overcooking the rice: Leaving the rice on heat for too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for doneness.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold broth or cheese can cause uneven cooking. Always use room temperature ingredients for best results.
• Not seasoning enough: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland flavors. Adjust salt and spices according to your taste preferences.
• Ignoring the liquid: Adding too much or too little broth will change the consistency of your dish. Measure carefully for perfect creaminess.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice?

Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice is a hearty one-pot meal featuring ground beef, rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa con queso, and shredded cheese.

How do I customize Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more flavor. Spice it up with jalapeños or experiment with different cheeses!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegetarian option for Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives while keeping all other ingredients intact.

Conclusion

Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices!