Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice Delight

Posted on January 25, 2026

Creamy garlic butter beef dish with cheddar rice on a plate.

introduction

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice Delight is a quick, comforting one-pan dinner that brings cheesy, garlicky flavor and tender beef together with fluffy rice. This recipe hits all the cozy notes without fuss, perfect for busy nights or meal-prep lunches. For a similar family-friendly casserole vibe with a slightly different bake-and-serve approach, check out this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole recipe for inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice Delight

Big, bold cheddar flavor in every forkful — ultra-satisfying comfort food.
One-pan skillet recipe means minimal cleanup and maximum ease.
Ready in under 30 minutes so it’s perfect for weeknights.
Family-friendly and kid-approved — cheesy, creamy, and familiar.
Great for meal prep: leftovers reheat beautifully for quick lunches.

Ingredients Needed :

Protein

1 lb ground beef

Rice & Liquids

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups beef broth

Aromatics & Fats

1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Dairy & Cheese

1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Spices & Herbs

1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish (optional)

Green onions, sliced for garnish

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice Delight 4

Step-by-Step Instructions :

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Once the beef is browned, stir in the rice. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Mix until the butter is melted and everything is well combined.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Once everything is well combined, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Serving Suggestions Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice Delight

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to add freshness and balance.
Top with pickled jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Scoop into warmed bowls and finish with extra shredded cheddar and scallions.
Pair with a buttery dinner roll or crusty bread for sopping up every last bit.

Tips for Success Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Cheddar Rice Delight

Use a skillet with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even rice cooking and steam retention.
Brown the beef well for extra depth — a little caramelization adds big flavor.
Stir the rice once after adding it to coat with beef drippings before adding broth.
If your rice isn’t tender after 18 minutes, add a splash more broth, cover, and cook a few extra minutes.
Shred your own cheddar from a block for better melting and flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
For lower fat, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, but expect a slightly thinner sauce.

variation (if any)

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Stir in a cup of frozen peas and carrots with the broth for extra veggies and color.
Use pepper jack or a blend of cheeses (cheddar + Monterey Jack) for a melty, slightly spicy twist.
Make it in the oven: transfer to a 350°F oven-safe dish after step 4, cover, and bake until rice is tender, then add cheese and broil briefly.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, but brown rice needs more liquid and longer cooking time (about 40–45 minutes). Increase the broth to 2 1/2–3 cups and cook until tender.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?

A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or microwave in short intervals, stirring to keep it creamy.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?

A: Absolutely. Use gluten-free beef broth and confirm any added seasonings are labeled gluten-free.

Q: Is there a way to make this ahead for meal prep?

A: Yes — cook through step 6, let cool, then portion into containers. Reheat with a little extra cream or broth to restore creaminess before serving.