Cheeseburger Rice
All the components come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese sauce)
- 1 large tomato, diced
- ½ cup cooked turkey bacon, chopped (non-pork alternative)
- Optional: chopped pickles or green onions for topping
Directions
- Step 1: In a saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, cover, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it stand covered.
- Step 2: Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Make sure to drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Step 4: Add the cooked rice into the beef mixture and stir well to combine.
- Step 5: Mix in the shredded cheddar or drizzle cheese sauce over the warm rice-beef blend, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Step 6: Gently fold in the chopped turkey bacon and diced tomatoes.
- Step 7: Serve hot in bowls with optional toppings like green onions or chopped pickles for extra burger flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat and skip the turkey bacon for a vegetarian version.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
4. Can I freeze cheeseburger rice?
Yes, you can freeze the cheeseburger rice! Just allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It should last for up to 2 months.
5. What sides pair well with cheeseburger rice?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs well with salads, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger rice combines the best of comfort food with ease of preparation, making it an excellent choice for every home cook. With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and delightful toppings, it is sure to please both family and friends alike. Plus, you’ll love how quickly you can whip it up for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. So the next time you crave a cheeseburger, skip the bun and dive into this delicious, rice-filled alternative!
