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This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Rice Skillet is the best of both worlds comfort food and easy cleanup all in one dish. With the nostalgic flavors of Sloppy Joes layered into a hearty skillet of savory beef and fluffy rice your weeknight dinner just got a major upgrade. I love how the mellow tanginess of the sauce soaks into every grain of rice and the golden melted cheddar on top gets everyone racing to the table.
I tried this for a Sunday meal prep and everyone kept sneaking forkfuls straight from the skillet before dinner was even served. It quickly became a regular in my rotation especially on busy nights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: brings the rich meaty base and is best with 85 percent lean for juicy flavor
- Yellow onion: adds sweet mellow notes make sure it is firm with shiny skin
- Minute rice: gives you a fast cooking grain use your favorite quick cook variety for zero stress
- Beef broth: adds savory depth use low sodium for more control over saltiness
- Cheddar cheese: melts over the skillet pulling everything together choose sharp for the best bite
- Brown sugar: provides balance and that classic Sloppy Joe sweetness packed light brown gives a nice caramel touch
- Onion powder and garlic powder: amplify the savory and aromatic notes
- Beef bouillon powder: deepens the beefy flavor pick granules or paste for easy blending
- Salt and black pepper: brighten and sharpen all flavors
- Tomato sauce: lays down the tangy and moist base for the signature sauce pick a smooth rich variety
- Worcestershire sauce: contributes complexity and earthiness try to use a real fermented brand for flavor
- Ketchup: makes it sweet tangy and perfectly saucy
- Yellow mustard: brings zing and rounds out that Sloppy Joe vibe look for classic squeeze bottle mustard for the best nostalgia
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions:
- Start your skillet over medium high heat and add ground beef along with diced onion. Cook until the beef is fully browned with no trace of pink and the onions turn soft and golden. Drain away any excess fat carefully so your sauce is not greasy.
- Season the Mixture:
- Sprinkle in brown sugar onion powder garlic powder salt and black pepper. Stir until the spices and sugar evenly coat the beef. This step builds the backbone of Sloppy Joe flavor so take time to mix thoroughly.
- Simmer the Sauce and Rice:
- Pour in ketchup mustard tomato sauce and beef broth. Whisk the mixture well so it becomes smooth and unified. Let it come to a gentle simmer then stir in the dry rice making sure it is distributed. Cover and cook according to your rice package directions until all the liquid is absorbed and rice is fluffy.
- Add the Cheese:
- Once your rice is fluffy scatter shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet so the cheese melts fully. Serve warm scooping right from the skillet for the best cheesy goodness.
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My favorite part is the golden edges of cheese that crisp along the rim of the skillet. Sometimes my family argues over who gets those cheesy bites. The scent of ketchup and onion simmering together always reminds me of cozy childhood meals.
Storage Tips
Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing. Pack leftovers into airtight containers and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage freeze individual portions in freezer safe containers for up to two months. To reheat add a splash of beef broth and gently warm in the microwave or stovetop.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can stand in for beef for a lighter version. Use cooked rice or leftover grains just reduce the broth to avoid mushiness. For the cheese try Monterey Jack or even mozzarella for a gooier melt.
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Serving Suggestions
Spoon the skillet onto toasted buns for a fun twist or serve beside a crisp green salad to lighten the meal. It is also delicious sprinkled with thinly sliced scallions or a dab of hot sauce for extra heat.
History and Comfort
This recipe puts a modern spin on a cafeteria classic turning Sloppy Joes into a one dish marvel. Sloppy Joes date back to mid century America where quick meaty recipes were a staple for families. Now with the rice skillet version you get all that nostalgia with extra comfort and ease.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use regular rice instead of Minute Rice?
Yes, you can substitute regular rice. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time according to your rice package directions to ensure a tender result.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container. It keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheats with a splash of broth.
- → Can I freeze this skillet meal?
Yes. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently with added broth as needed.
- → What toppings go well with this dish?
Fresh green onions, extra shredded cheddar, or even a dollop of sour cream add delicious finishing touches and freshness.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
- → Can I add vegetables for more texture?
Diced bell peppers, tomatoes, or even corn are great additions that boost flavor and texture without extra fuss.