Dinner

Cheeseburger Rice Recipe

ByMaya Quinn February 16, 2026February 16, 2026

Introduction

Cheeseburger Rice is a simple, comforting one-pan meal that captures the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a hearty rice dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

A golden pan filled with a one-layer mix of cooked ground beef and rice, showing a moist and slightly glossy texture with small sprinkles of green herbs scattered on top and mixed in. The beef is browned, and the rice grains are slightly orange-brown from the sauce, with a wooden spoon placed inside the pan suggesting stirring action. Around the pan on a white marbled surface are three slices of yellow-green pickles, a small white bowl of red chopped tomatoes, and a small white bowl of creamy orange sauce with some drips outside the bowl. A striped cloth napkin is partly visible under the pan's bottom left edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup diced onion (white or yellow)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
½ teaspoon pepper
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
⅓ cup ketchup
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Burger toppings (optional for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add ½ cup diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Add 1 pound lean ground beef to the skillet. Crumble the beef and cook until browned, about 7 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in 2 teaspoons minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Season with 1 teaspoon Kosher salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
Step 4: Pour in 2 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and ⅓ cup ketchup. Add 1 cup rinsed long-grain white rice and stir to combine.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Continue heating until the cheese melts evenly through the rice dish.
Step 7: Serve hot, topped with your favorite burger garnishes such as shredded lettuce, tomato, pickles, and burger sauce.

Tips & Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
Swap cheddar cheese with American or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Add a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky, spicy twist.
Try stirring in chopped pickles or a splash of pickle juice for extra tang.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.

How to Serve

A close-up of a red pan filled with a single layer of cooked yellow rice mixed with browned ground meat and melted cheese drizzled on top, showing a slightly oily texture and steam rising. The pan sits on a brown woven mat on a wooden surface with a light wooden spoon placed next to it. In the background, there are stacked white plates and a white marbled texture surface visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and check the rice for doneness before serving.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can cook the dish completely and refrigerate it. Reheat thoroughly before serving. The texture is best when eaten fresh but still tasty as leftovers.