Bacon Cheeseburger Rice

Introduction:

Craving the flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger but want something quick, easy, and family-friendly? This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice recipe brings all those savory, cheesy, smoky burger flavors into one delicious skillet meal. It’s a budget-friendly, one-pan wonder that combines crispy bacon, ground beef, cheese, and rice into a satisfying comfort food experience.

Origin:

This dish takes inspiration from the American cheeseburger, an iconic staple of diner and cookout culture. Combining those classic ingredients with rice turns this into a hearty, fusion-style skillet meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It likely evolved from midwestern casserole and skillet dinner traditions, where everything is cooked together for convenience and comfort.

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 2 1/4 cups beef broth or water with bouillon
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional, for topping)
  • Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish

Optional Ingredients/Substitutes:

  • Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier version
  • Add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or bell peppers for extra flavor
  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein
  • Mix in Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce for a bolder taste
  • Top with lettuce and diced tomato after cooking for a full burger-in-a-bowl vibe

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tbsp of bacon grease in the pan.
  2. Add ground beef and onion to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add uncooked rice and stir to coat. Pour in the beef broth.
  5. Stir in ketchup and mustard. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes (or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed).
  6. Turn off heat. Stir in cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Garnish with pickles, green onions, or extra cheese if desired.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy, savory skillet meal!

Tips for Success:

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and flavor.
  • If rice isn’t fully cooked, add a splash of water and continue to simmer covered.
  • Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.
  • Adjust ketchup and mustard amounts to match your flavor preferences—more ketchup for sweetness, more mustard for tang.

Recommendations:

  • Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance the meal.
  • Leftovers reheat well—add a splash of broth or water before microwaving.
  • This dish is kid-friendly and also great for potlucks or meal prepping.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1/6 of recipe):

  • Calories: 460
  • Fat: 26g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Net Carbs: 31g

(Nutrition will vary based on substitutions and portion size.)

Leave a Comment