Name: Rice Mess
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups water; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef; 1 (8 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained; Salt and ground black pepper to taste; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 4 slices Cheddar cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rice Mess is a perfect example of how a few everyday ingredients can come together to create a satisfying and flavorful dish. With minimal prep time and common pantry staples, this recipe offers a warm, cheesy, and protein-packed meal that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s a one-skillet solution that’s both budget-friendly and easy to clean up.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups water
1 cup uncooked rice
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 (8 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
4 slices Cheddar cheese

Directions

In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
Meanwhile, heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and translucent. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Return the onion and garlic mixture to the skillet with the beef. Add the drained mushrooms and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Stir in the cooked rice and tomato sauce until everything is well combined and heated through.
Top the mixture with cheddar cheese slices. Let the cheese melt over the hot mixture before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese options: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Vegetarian version: Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Extra veggies: Include bell peppers, peas, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Different grains: Try using brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if the mixture becomes too thick.

FAQs

What kind of rice works best for this recipe?

Long grain white rice works well, but you can also use jasmine or basmati rice. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Rice Mess can be made in advance and reheated later. It stores and reheats very well.

Is it possible to freeze Rice Mess?

Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I use instead of tomato sauce?

You can use crushed tomatoes or a mix of tomato paste and water. Add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?

Absolutely. Fresh mushrooms can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Make sure not to overcook the rice. Stick to the simmering time and fluff it with a fork once done.

What other meat can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken are all good substitutes for ground beef.

Can I bake this dish instead of using a skillet?

Yes. Once everything is combined, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground meat, brown rice, and reduce the amount of cheese. Adding more vegetables will also boost nutrition.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all canned products (like tomato sauce and mushrooms) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Rice Mess is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that brings together classic flavors in a single pan. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing meals in advance, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Customizable, kid-friendly, and easy to store, it’s a timeless comfort food that never disappoints.