This cheesy beef and pepper rice skillet is a warm, hearty dish packed with flavor and perfect for a quick family dinner. Tender strips of seasoned beef blend with colorful peppers, soft onions, and creamy melted cheese, all mixed into a bed of savory rice. It’s a complete meal in one pan, simple to prepare and satisfying enough to please everyone at the table.
The combination of textures makes this dish special. The beef brings a rich, meaty bite, the peppers add sweetness and color, and the cheese melts beautifully into the rice, creating a creamy coating that ties everything together.
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Ingredients
- 400 g beef strips
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your choice)
- 2 ½ cups broth (beef or chicken)
- Optional: chili flakes, parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Add the broth to a pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Rinse the rice, then add it to the broth. Cover and cook on low heat until soft and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Season the Beef
Place the beef strips in a bowl. Add paprika, black pepper, salt, oregano, and a little olive oil. Toss to coat each piece evenly. Let the beef sit for a few minutes to absorb the seasonings.
3. Sear the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with olive oil. Add the beef in a single layer. Cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside. The beef should be deeply browned but still tender.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the onion slices and cook until soft. Add the red, yellow, and green peppers. Stir frequently until they become slightly tender but still colorful. Add garlic and cook briefly.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked rice into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to mix well. Return the beef to the pan and combine everything. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt gently. Once melted, the dish becomes creamy and rich, coating the beef and peppers beautifully.
Flavor and Texture
This dish brings together a balanced mix of flavors:
- Tender beef for a hearty base
- Sweet and crisp bell peppers
- Soft, seasoned rice
- Creamy melted cheese throughout
The peppers add brightness while the beef brings savory depth. The rice absorbs all the juices from the pan, making every spoonful flavorful.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice the beef thinly so it cooks quickly.
- Do not overcook the peppers; keep some texture.
- Choose a cheese that melts smoothly for the best finish.
- Add chili flakes if you want a spicy kick.
- Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet for best browning.
Variations
This skillet is flexible and easy to customize:
- Replace beef with chicken strips or turkey.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for more vegetables.
- Use basmati, jasmine, or brown rice.
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or a mix.
- Add a spoon of cream for an even richer texture.
Serving Ideas
Serve straight from the skillet while hot. It pairs well with:
- A light green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh herbs on top
It’s also great as meal prep since it reheats well.
Storage
Let the dish cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Up to 1 month
Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.