A weeknight comfort dish doesn’t get much more satisfying than this Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce. Juicy seasoned beef, fluffy white rice, and a blanket of melted cheddar and parmesan create a symphony of bold, savory flavors in one simple skillet.

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings or last-minute cravings. It’s loaded with cheesy goodness and rich garlic butter notes that feel indulgent without the fuss. If you’re after a quick dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this is your go-to.
What Kind of Rice Should I Use?
For the fluffiest and most balanced texture, long grain white rice or jasmine rice works best. These varieties soak up the garlic butter and sauce without becoming mushy. Leftover rice also works beautifully—especially if you prefer a firmer texture in your skillet meals.
Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
- Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and flavor as the base of this one-pan meal.
 - Garlic Butter: The backbone of the dish, providing richness and depth. Use real butter for best flavor.
 - White Rice: Absorbs the savory flavors and acts as the hearty filler.
 - Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection and brings sharp tang to the dish.
 - Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty note that balances the richness.
 - Fresh Parsley: Brightens up the plate and adds a touch of color.
 - Salt & Pepper: To season everything just right.
 - Paprika or Chili Flakes (optional): For an added kick of flavor.
 
How To Make the Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Garlic Butter
Reduce heat to low and stir in your garlic butter (about 2-3 tablespoons). Let it melt fully into the beef, stirring until well coated and fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Base
In a separate pot (or using pre-cooked rice), prepare white rice according to package instructions. Fluff and layer it on a plate or into the same skillet if desired for one-pan serving.
Step 4: Assemble with Cheese
Top the rice with your garlic butter beef, then sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar and grated parmesan. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a dash of paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor and color.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Beef and Rice
This skillet meal is best served hot right from the pan, but it also reheats incredibly well for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave with a splash of water or reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter to refresh the flavor.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Beef and Rice?
Steamed Broccoli
A light, nutritious green that contrasts the richness of the dish.
Roasted Carrots
Sweet and earthy flavors bring great balance to the skillet.
Garlic Bread
Double down on garlic and soak up all the cheesy goodness.
Mixed Greens Salad
A crisp and refreshing option to keep things light.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
Creamy, naturally sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with the savory skillet.
Fried or Poached Egg
Add extra richness and a beautiful yolk drizzle.
Sauteed Mushrooms
Earthy umami flavor adds depth and texture.
Want More Beef Skillet Ideas?
If you love this comforting skillet, check out more flavorful meals packed with rich sauces and cheesy touches:
- Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for pasta lovers who want a similar one-pot vibe.
 - Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you’re craving beef with noodles.
 - Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a cheesier, indulgent bite.
 - Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for another comfort-food classic.
 - Cheesy Hamburger Casserole when you want an oven-baked version of this skillet.
 
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add hot sauce? A different cheese blend? I love seeing how everyone makes this dish their own.
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		Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
 - Yield: 4 servings
 
Description
If you’re after a fast and flavor-packed meal that feels like comfort in a bowl, this Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce delivers every time. Tender beef browned to perfection, bathed in garlic butter, and served over fluffy rice with a melty blend of cheddar and parmesan makes it the kind of quick dinner or hearty lunch that everyone craves. It’s an easy recipe for busy nights and a tasty food idea perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re looking for dinner ideas, quick meal inspiration, or just a comforting dish to cozy up with, this skillet delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
3 cups cooked white rice
3 tablespoons garlic butter
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Lower the heat and stir in the garlic butter. Let it melt into the beef, stirring well.
3. Prepare the rice in a separate pot or use pre-cooked rice. Fluff and set aside.
4. Layer the rice into bowls or return to the skillet for a one-pan presentation.
5. Top the rice with garlic butter beef.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and parmesan over the top. Cover the skillet to melt the cheese for 2–3 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and optional paprika or chili flakes before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, use freshly grated cheddar and parmesan—pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Leftover rice works great and gives the dish a slightly firmer texture that’s perfect for skillet-style meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
 - Cook Time: 15 minutes
 - Category: Dinner
 - Method: Skillet
 - Cuisine: American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
 - Calories: 610
 - Sugar: 2g
 - Sodium: 730mg
 - Fat: 38g
 - Saturated Fat: 18g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 17g
 - Trans Fat: 1g
 - Carbohydrates: 38g
 - Fiber: 1g
 - Protein: 31g
 - Cholesterol: 105mg
 
					