Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are soft and fragrant.
4. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly coat the meat and vegetables.
5. Mix in the cooked rice and drained diced tomatoes. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet and cover with a lid. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Top with the crumbled bacon just before serving.
8. Garnish with sliced pickles or green onions if desired.

Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Use pepper jack cheese and add corn and black beans.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with a plant-based ground and omit bacon or use a meatless substitute.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, cook the rice in beef broth instead of water.
• Make it ahead and store in the fridge—it reheats well for lunches or leftovers.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy bite.
• A non-stick or cast iron skillet works best for even cooking and easy cleanup.

This Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Skillet is more than a quick meal—it’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers all the indulgence of a cheeseburger with the comfort of a warm rice dish.