Introduction
The Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is a hearty, comforting one-pan meal that brings together all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger—savory ground beef, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and a touch of tang—blended with tender rice for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling without the fuss.
Origin
This dish is a modern American comfort-food mashup that evolved from skillet casseroles and hamburger rice meals commonly made in the 1970s–1990s. As one-pan cooking became popular again, home cooks began combining classic cheeseburger ingredients with rice to create an easy, crowd-pleasing alternative to traditional hamburgers.
Cultural Significance
In American home cooking, “skillet suppers” symbolize practicality and togetherness. The Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet fits that tradition perfectly—simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and familiar flavors that resonate with both kids and adults. It’s often the kind of dish shared at potlucks, weeknight dinners, or after-school meals where comfort and convenience are key
Ingredients & Quantities
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 ¼ cups beef broth
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- Diced pickles (stir in before serving for a true burger flavor)
- Tomato paste for a richer base
- Hot sauce for heat
- Paprika or smoked paprika
- Frozen peas or corn for added bulk
- Monterey Jack or pepper jack instead of cheddar
- Green onions for garnish
Tips for Success
- Cook bacon first so you can use some of the rendered fat to brown the beef.
- Drain excess grease after browning beef to keep the dish from becoming oily.
- Don’t lift the lid while the rice cooks—this ensures tender, fluffy grains.
- Use freshly shredded cheese; it melts better than pre-shredded.
- Add pickles at the end so they stay crisp.
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, fry chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
- Brown the beef: Add ground beef, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Season the mixture: Stir in ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add rice: Mix in the uncooked rice, coating it in the beef mixture.
- Add broth: Pour in beef broth and stir well.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15–18 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with bacon and cheese: Stir in the cooked bacon and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Cover for 2–3 minutes to melt.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with diced pickles or green onions.
Description
The Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Each bite delivers the essence of a classic cheeseburger—juicy beef, salty bacon, gooey cheddar, and tangy burger-style seasonings—balanced by tender, fluffy rice. The flavors meld together into a rich, comforting, one-pan dish that feels familiar yet exciting.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per 1.25 Cup Serving)
- Calories: 450–550
- Fat: 25–30 g
- Carbohydrates: 32–38 g
- Protein: 28–32 g
- Sodium: Moderate to high, depending on broth and bacon
- Fiber: 1–2 g
Conclusion
This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is a flavorful, comforting dinner that brings together the joy of a classic bacon cheeseburger and the convenience of a one-pan meal. It’s filling, quick to make, and perfect for families who love bold, comforting flavors.
Recommendation
Serve this skillet dish with a simple green salad, sliced pickles, or roasted vegetables. For extra cheeseburger appeal, add shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes on top just before serving.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To enjoy this dish more healthfully without losing satisfaction, consider using lean beef, reducing the amount of cheese, or swapping part of the rice for cauliflower rice. Savor smaller portions slowly—this skillet is rich, flavorful, and indulgent, so even a modest serving feels comforting and complete.