There’s something deeply comforting about a skillet filled with melted cheese, tender beef, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. Cheesy Beef Broccoli and Rice is a weeknight hero—it’s hearty, rich in flavor, and comes together in one pan. This dish is everything we love about a homemade meal: simple ingredients, satisfying portions, and just the right touch of cheesy goodness to make every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to meal prep something nourishing for a few days, this recipe checks every box. The balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs creates a feel-good meal that won’t leave you hunting for snacks afterward. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that ground beef and broccoli you’ve got in the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Broccoli and Rice

This dish is a go-to for busy evenings because it brings big flavor with minimal effort. Everything cooks in one pan, which means easy cleanup and fewer dishes in the sink. The melted cheese blankets the entire skillet in creamy comfort, while the broccoli adds that much-needed freshness and crunch. Ground beef makes it filling, and the rice ties it all together like a cozy casserole without the baking.

It’s endlessly customizable, too. Swap the rice for quinoa, use turkey instead of beef, or throw in a splash of hot sauce for a kick. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, everyone ends up asking for seconds.

Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?

Both fresh and frozen broccoli work wonderfully in this dish. Fresh broccoli florets provide a firmer bite and vibrant color. Just chop them into small, quick-cooking pieces. Frozen broccoli is super convenient—no chopping required—but it can release more water, so you might want to cook it a few minutes longer to let any excess moisture evaporate. Either way, your cheesy skillet will still taste amazing.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef Broccoli and Rice

The magic of this recipe is in how everyday ingredients come together to create a savory, cozy meal. Each item brings its own role to the dish:

Ground beef
Cooked rice
Broccoli florets
Cheddar cheese
Onion
Garlic
Butter or oil
Milk or cream
Salt and pepper

Ground beef gives this skillet its hearty, satisfying base. Opt for lean beef if you want to keep the dish lighter.

Cooked rice adds that soft, fluffy texture that binds everything together. Leftover rice works perfectly here, making this a great next-day meal.

Broccoli florets bring in color, crunch, and nutrients. They also balance the richness of the cheese.

Cheddar cheese is the gooey highlight of the recipe. Choose sharp cheddar for more bite, or go mild if you prefer a smoother flavor.

Onion and garlic form the aromatic base that builds flavor into every spoonful.

Butter or oil is needed to sauté and soften your aromatics and beef.

Milk or cream helps create a creamier sauce that makes the dish extra indulgent.

Salt and pepper to finish and balance all the flavors.

How To Make the Cheesy Beef Broccoli and Rice

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, add a bit of oil or butter and sauté diced onion until translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in minced garlic and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

Step 2: Add Broccoli

Add in the broccoli florets. If using fresh, add a splash of water and cover the pan to steam them slightly. If using frozen, toss them straight in and cook until tender.

Step 3: Stir in Rice

Mix in the cooked rice and stir everything to combine. This is a great time to season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Pour in a splash of milk or cream and sprinkle in half of the shredded cheese. Stir until melted and everything is coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Top and Melt

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese on top is fully melted.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Give it a gentle stir and serve warm. Optional: top with fresh herbs or red pepper flakes.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Beef Broccoli and Rice

This one-pan wonder serves 4 to 6 people, depending on appetite size. It’s fantastic right off the stove, piping hot with that top layer of melty cheese. Serve it in bowls for a casual dinner or spoon it alongside a fresh salad for contrast.

Leftovers store beautifully. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat when you need a no-fuss dinner.

What to Serve With Cheesy Beef Broccoli and Rice?

Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a zippy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cheese.

Garlic Bread

For extra indulgence, pair with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every bite.

Roasted Vegetables

Add more color and nutrition with a tray of roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Pickled Vegetables

A small side of pickled onions or carrots cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate.

Creamy Coleslaw

The tangy, creamy crunch of coleslaw works well against the savory beef and cheese.

Simple Tomato Soup

A bowl of light tomato soup makes this skillet dinner feel even more comforting.

Deviled Eggs

They add a fun, snacky side to your meal with protein to boot.

Fried or Baked Plantains

For a fun twist, serve some sweet plantains on the side for a savory-sweet flavor play.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this skillet meal hit the spot, you’ll want to explore more of these cheesy, comforting meals from Janet Dishes:

Try the One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a pasta take on creamy comfort.
These Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole bring cozy vibes with every forkful.
The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is packed with flavor and melty goodness.
Don’t miss out on Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese if you love all things extra cheesy.
Looking for something meatless? Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta is a bright and satisfying choice.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how your skillet turned out. Did you use frozen or fresh broccoli? Maybe a mix of cheeses? I love hearing the ways you make it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and hearty casseroles on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next crave-worthy recipe!

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Broccoli and Rice is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something that tastes like a warm hug. It’s easy, it’s flexible, and it’s packed with the flavors we all crave. Whether you’re serving a table full of guests or simply cooking for yourself, this dish always hits the mark.