If you are searching for a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly and delivers big on flavor, look no further than this Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of juicy ground beef, fluffy rice, creamy cheeses, and a rich tomato-infused sauce that melds beautifully in the Instant Pot. This dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table in under 40 minutes, making it a fantastic go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you need a delicious crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require hours of prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe right is all about simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch in every bite. Each component here works together to create a hearty texture, a vibrant color, and layers of cozy flavors that will keep you coming back for seconds.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The star protein that adds richness and a meaty depth.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed chicken broth: Infuses the dish with savory moisture and umami notes.
- 2 ½ cups milk: Helps create a creamy, tender rice texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1 ½ teaspoons pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice and warmth.
- 2 teaspoons onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Gives a robust, comforting punch of garlicky flavor.
- 2 cups long-grain white rice: The perfect grain for fluffy, separate rice in one pot.
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed tomato soup: Brings a velvety tomato richness and slight tanginess.
- 1 (8.75 oz) can corn, drained: Adds pop and sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection.
How to Make Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by setting your Instant Pot to “Sauté Normal” mode. Add a bit of butter or oil to the pot, then toss in the lean ground beef. Let it brown fully, stirring occasionally so that the beef cooks evenly and develops rich, caramelized bits. This step builds a flavorful base that makes the whole dish sing.
Step 2: Add the Liquids and Spices
Once your beef is nicely browned, stir in the condensed chicken broth and milk, following with the salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Each seasoning is essential because they create a warm, balanced flavor foundation for the rice to absorb during cooking.
Step 3: Add the Rice and More Ingredients
Next, add the long-grain white rice straight into the pot. Press it gently with your spoon to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid fully. Then, carefully spoon the condensed tomato soup on top along with the drained corn—don’t stir these in yet, as they will cook on top and meld in beautifully during pressure cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook on High
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Pressure cook the meal on High pressure for exactly 7 minutes. This brief, intense cooking time perfectly cooks the rice and infuses it with flavor while keeping the beef tender and juicy.
Step 5: Quick Release and Stir
As soon as the cooking time is up, perform an immediate quick release by turning the steam release handle to “Venting.” When the pressure is fully released, carefully open the lid. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly to bring all the layers together for a homogenous, delicious bite.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Finally, sprinkle your shredded cheese blend over the hot mixture, then stir until melted and luscious. This step is where the dish truly transforms into a creamy, cheesy delight that hugs every grain of rice and morsel of beef.
How to Serve Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a few jalapeño slices can also offer a creamy or spicy kick, depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a meal on its own but pairs fabulously with crisp salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded plate. If you want to add more carbs, warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls make for a comforting addition.
Creative Ways to Present
For potluck dinners or family meals, consider serving the Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled briefly for a golden crust. You can also spoon it into hollowed bell peppers and bake for a fun presentation that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes very well. Portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture and flavors fresh.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive its creamy texture. Stir occasionally while warming to ensure even heating and cheesy goodness throughout.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
While long-grain white rice is best for this recipe because it cooks quickly and stays fluffy, you can experiment with other rice varieties. Just keep in mind that cooking times and liquid amounts might need adjusting to get the perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out regular milk for a plant-based alternative like oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese substitutes. The rich flavor from the broth and tomato soup will still shine through beautifully.
Can I add vegetables to the Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe?
Yes, vegetables like diced bell peppers, peas, or chopped spinach can be stirred in after pressure cooking or added right before cooking if they don’t need much time. This adds freshness and extra nutrition.
How spicy is this dish? Can I make it spicier?
This recipe has a mild, comforting flavor profile by default. To add heat, consider mixing in cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or topping servings with hot sauce or fresh jalapeños.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well and create a lighter version of this dish while keeping the wonderful cheesy and creamy texture that makes it so satisfying.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe enough if you want a meal that’s easy, economical, and bursting with comforting flavors. It’s exactly the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel special without a lot of fuss. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite quick fix that feeds the whole family happily and reliably.
Print
Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice recipe combines tender ground beef, savory tomato soup, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses for a comforting, easy-to-make meal. With minimal prep and a quick pressure cooking time, it delivers a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Liquids & Broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed chicken broth
- 2 ½ cups milk
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed tomato soup
Dry Seasonings
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons pepper
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Grains & Vegetables
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 (8.75 oz) can corn, drained
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
Fat
- Butter or oil for sautéing (quantity as needed)
Instructions
- Brown Beef: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté Normal” mode, add butter or oil, and brown the ground beef thoroughly until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the condensed chicken broth, milk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder to the browned beef. Add the rice and press it down gently so it is submerged in the liquids.
- Top With Soup and Corn: Without stirring, spoon the condensed tomato soup evenly over the rice and then sprinkle the drained corn on top. This layering helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the High Pressure setting and cook for 7 minutes.
- Quick Release and Stir: Once the cooking time is complete, immediately perform a quick release by turning the steam release valve to “Venting.” Remove the lid carefully and stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend until the cheese melts fully into the hot rice and beef mixture. Serve the dish immediately while warm and cheesy.
Notes
- Be sure to press the rice down so it is fully submerged in the liquids to ensure even cooking.
- Do not stir after adding tomato soup and corn to prevent burning and sticking to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ground beef.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the cheese may thicken slightly.
