Easy Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

Introduction

If you’re craving the flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger but want something heartier and easier to prepare, this Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is the recipe for you. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines seasoned ground beef, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and fluffy rice into a comforting meal the whole family will love. With simple pantry ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something quick, filling, and delicious.

My recipe story

This recipe was born on a weeknight when I wanted a cheeseburger but didn’t have buns on hand. I decided to try combining the flavors I love in a skillet with rice, and the result was even better than I expected. The smoky crunch of bacon, the gooey melted cheese, and the satisfying texture of rice all came together in one comforting dish. Since then, it has become a regular in my meal rotation. It’s also been a lifesaver when entertaining friends because it doubles as a casual yet hearty meal that feeds a crowd without a lot of effort.

Ingredient breakdown

The magic of this recipe lies in how everyday ingredients come together to form something greater than the sum of its parts. Ground beef forms the base, providing protein and a classic cheeseburger flavor. Opting for lean ground beef will help reduce excess grease while still giving you all the flavor you need.

Bacon adds smokiness and a satisfying crunch. You can cook it crisp or keep it a little chewy depending on preference. Rice makes this dish filling and hearty. Using instant rice keeps the cooking time short, but regular cooked rice can be substituted if you have leftovers on hand. Cheese brings everything together, adding creaminess and a touch of indulgence.

To enhance the flavor, onion, garlic, and seasonings are sautéed with the beef. These simple aromatics elevate the dish from basic to deeply savory. A splash of broth or water helps cook the rice directly in the skillet, infusing it with all the meaty, smoky flavors for maximum taste.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)

Step-by-step directions

1. Cook the bacon: Start by cutting the bacon into bite-sized pieces and cooking them in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow them to crisp up to your liking, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate while leaving some of the drippings in the pan for flavor.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, usually about 3–4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
3. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you enjoy. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, ensuring it’s fully browned for the best texture and flavor.
4. Add the rice and liquid: Stir in the instant rice, making sure it gets coated in all the savory beef and onion flavors. Pour in the appropriate amount of broth or water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook according to package directions until the rice is tender and fluffy.
5. Incorporate the cheese and bacon: Once the rice is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet, mixing everything thoroughly so each bite has smoky, cheesy goodness.
6. Serve and enjoy: Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional cheese, chopped parsley, or even diced pickles for a fun cheeseburger-inspired topping.

Variations & substitutions

There are many ways to adapt this dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make it lighter. You can also use vegetarian crumbles or lentils for a meat-free option. If you don’t have instant rice, use cooked rice and reduce the cooking liquid accordingly. Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or Swiss for a unique flavor. Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms can boost nutrition while still keeping the dish hearty.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This skillet dish stores beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual. If making ahead, prepare everything except the final cheese addition, then reheat and stir in cheese before serving for the best texture.

Serving ideas & pairings

This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet can be served as a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. A crisp green salad balances the richness, while roasted or steamed vegetables add color and nutrition. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great for soaking up extra cheesy sauce. For a fun twist, serve with pickle spears, ketchup, or hot sauce on the side to mimic a classic burger experience. It’s also a hit at potlucks, where guests can scoop portions easily and enjoy hearty comfort food without fuss.

FAQ

Can I use regular rice instead of instant?
Yes, you can use cooked rice or long-grain rice. If using uncooked long-grain rice, extend the cooking time and adjust the liquid accordingly.

What cheese works best for this dish?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses all work well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish and refrigerate. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of liquid to keep it moist.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the cheesy, beefy flavors. You can also leave out onions or add milder seasonings if preferred.

Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes—use lean ground meat, add vegetables, and choose reduced-fat cheese to make it lighter while still flavorful.

Final thoughts

This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the flavors of a cheeseburger in a hearty, one-pan meal. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, versatile enough to customize, and satisfying enough to feed a hungry family. Whether you’re meal prepping, entertaining friends, or just looking for a cozy dinner idea, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Give it a try, and you may find it’s even better than your favorite takeout burger!

Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

 A hearty one-pan meal with ground beef, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and tender rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• ½ medium onion, diced

• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 cups instant rice

• 4 slices bacon, chopped

• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional if bacon fat is enough)

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: parsley, diced pickles, or extra cheese
  

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Instructions

1. Cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some drippings in the pan.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.

3. Stir in the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked.

4. Add the instant rice and stir to coat in the beef mixture. Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until rice is tender.
5. Reduce heat, stir in shredded cheese, and fold the bacon back into the skillet. Mix well until creamy and combined.

6. Remove from heat, let rest a few minutes, then serve hot with optional garnishes.

Notes

This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For meal prep, portion into containers and reheat with a splash of broth. Add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American