If you’re craving something hearty and full of flavor, this Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice is the kind of comfort food that makes everyone rush to the table. It’s a creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy dish that turns simple pantry staples into something irresistible.
The first time I made this, it was one of those “what can I make with what I have?” nights. I had some ground beef, leftover rice, and a jar of queso dip. I tossed everything together with a few spices and cheese — and somehow created one of the best dinners I’ve ever thrown together on a weeknight. Now it sits right next to my Beef and Chickpea Skillet and Cajun Seafood Alfredo as one of my go-to “real-life magic” dinners.
Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add diced onion and minced garlic and cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add uncooked rice and stir to coat it in the beef mixture.
- Pour in beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Once rice is cooked, stir in queso dip and shredded cheddar. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, or jalapeños if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Let it rest before serving to thicken.
• Easily swap in leftover cooked rice — just stir it in at the end.
• Adjust spice level with chili powder or jalapeños.
• Perfect for meal prep or freezing.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice
It’s a one-pan meal that’s creamy, filling, and loaded with flavor. The queso gives it a velvety sauce, the rice adds heartiness, and the ground beef makes it satisfying enough for everyone. Even better — it’s done in under 30 minutes and perfect for meal prep.
If you love creamy comfort dishes like my Loaded Cornbread Casserole or Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, this recipe is right up your alley.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or 3 cups cooked)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup jarred queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Jalapeño slices
If you like this combination of bold and creamy, try my Cajun Potato Soup — it has that same cozy spice kick.
How to Make Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings and Rice
Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add uncooked rice and stir to coat it in the flavorful beef mixture.
Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add Queso and Cheese
Once the rice is cooked, stir in queso dip and shredded cheddar until everything is creamy and combined.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Spoon into bowls and top with cilantro, avocado, or jalapeño slices if desired.
If you love simple one-pan meals like this, my Beef Lombardi Casserole has that same hearty, family-style appeal.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice
- Use jarred queso for convenience: It blends easily and saves time.
- Let it rest before serving: The sauce thickens as it sits.
- Adjust the spice: Add more chili powder or jalapeño for heat.
- Use leftover rice: Stir it in at the end instead of simmering raw rice.
Little steps like these are what make my Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo taste restaurant-worthy — it’s all about balance and texture.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely and freeze up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to bring back creaminess.
Like my Christmas Bread Recipe, this dish is perfect for make-ahead prep when you want comfort ready to go.
Flavor Variations
- Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans and corn.
- Spicy Fiesta: Stir in diced jalapeños or hot salsa.
- Creamy Chicken Swap: Use shredded chicken instead of beef.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
If you love flavor-packed one-pan meals like this, you’ll also enjoy my Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls — a classic, comforting twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the liquid slightly and simmer longer.
2. What kind of queso works best?
Any jarred cheese dip works — mild or spicy, depending on your taste.
3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes — skip the beef and use black beans or lentils for protein.
4. Can I add veggies?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini blend right in.
The Final Bite
This Cheesy Queso Ground Beef and Rice is comfort food done right — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your table feel warm.
Serve it with a side of tortilla chips, a drizzle of sour cream, or even as filling for burritos — it’s versatile, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.