Sometimes dinner calls for something hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Bacon cheeseburger rice is exactly that—an easy one-skillet meal packed with ground beef, crispy bacon, tender rice, melted cheese, and all the savory satisfaction of a classic bacon cheeseburger. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just craving a comforting weeknight meal, this cheesy beef and rice recipe checks every box. It’s flexible, budget-friendly, and made with pantry staples. In this post, we’ll walk through step-by-step instructions, variations, serving suggestions, storage tips, and how to get the most out of this irresistible skillet dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy: Done in under 30 minutes with one pan
Family favorite: Bacon, cheese, beef, and rice are a winning combo
Customizable: Add veggies, swap cheeses, or use turkey instead of beef
Perfect for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day
Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
1 cup long grain white rice
2 1/4 cups beef broth
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped pickles or green onions for garnish (optional)
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Rice: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if needed. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 2: Add Rice and Liquids
Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer
Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese and Bacon
Uncover and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon. Allow the cheese to melt into the rice for a gooey, delicious finish.
Step 5: Serve
Top with extra cheese, chopped pickles, green onions, or a drizzle of burger sauce for a fun twist. Serve warm.
Flavor Boosting Tips
Use sharp cheddar cheese for stronger flavor
Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for heat
Mix in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream for creamier texture
Use smoked paprika for extra depth
Replace some of the ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky touch
Variations to Try
Cheeseburger Rice with Ground Turkey
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. Add a bit of olive oil when cooking to keep it moist.
Spicy Jalapeño Cheeseburger Rice
Add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Pickle-Lover’s Version
Add chopped dill pickles right into the skillet before serving for that tangy crunch.
Loaded Cheeseburger Skillet
Mix in cooked mushrooms, sautéed bell peppers, or even frozen peas and carrots for a loaded meal.
Bacon Double Cheeseburger Rice
Add more cheese and a little extra bacon to double the indulgence. You can even top with crispy fried onions for texture.
Low-Carb Version
Swap the rice for riced cauliflower. Reduce the broth and cook uncovered until the cauliflower is tender.
Kid-Friendly Version
Omit mustard if your kids prefer simpler flavors and stick to ketchup and cheese. Use mild cheddar or mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are a few great pairings:
Simple green salad with ranch or vinaigrette
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Garlic toast or dinner rolls
Sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes with dip
Potato chips or crispy tater tots on the side
Make It a Party Dish
This cheesy skillet is perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or game days. Make a double batch and keep it warm in a slow cooker. Offer toppings like extra cheese, chopped pickles, jalapeños, hot sauce, or burger sauce so guests can build their own bowl.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in zip-top bags or freezer containers for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 26g
Fat: 28g
Carbs: 42g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 840mg
How to Make It Healthier
Use lean ground beef or turkey
Cut back on cheese or use a reduced-fat version
Use brown rice or quinoa for added fiber
Add more veggies like chopped spinach, corn, or zucchini
Why This Recipe Works
It’s the combination of flavors—savory beef, crispy bacon, tangy mustard, creamy cheese, and hearty rice—that makes this recipe shine. It brings the best of a bacon cheeseburger into a comforting one-dish format, making it practical, easy, and completely crave-worthy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers big-time satisfaction.
FAQs
Can I use minute rice or precooked rice?
Yes, but reduce the broth and cooking time. Add pre-cooked rice during the last 5 minutes and stir until heated through.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Use plant-based crumbles, vegetarian bacon, and veggie broth.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend all work well.
Does this taste like a cheeseburger?
Absolutely! The ketchup, mustard, beef, cheese, and bacon mimic all the key cheeseburger flavors.
How can I make it creamy?
Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving.
Great for Meal Prep
Divide this dish into four or five meal prep containers with a side of steamed vegetables or salad. It reheats beautifully and keeps you full all afternoon.
Ideas for Leftovers
Make stuffed bell peppers using leftover cheeseburger rice
Wrap it in a tortilla with shredded lettuce and tomato for a cheeseburger burrito
Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps
Serve over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
Top with a fried egg for a breakfast bowl
Final Thoughts
Bacon cheeseburger rice brings all the classic burger flavors into one satisfying skillet meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, beefy, and finished with smoky bacon—all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping lunches for the week, this dish is guaranteed to please.