A deconstructed bacon cheeseburger in rice form! This savory stack combines seasoned ground beef, cheesy rice, crispy bacon, and all the classic burger flavors into a fun and satisfying dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a creative twist on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
→ Beef Layer:
- 450 grams ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
→ Sauce & Rice:
- 225 milliliters tomato sauce
- 60 milliliters ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 320 grams instant rice
- 480 milliliters beef broth
→ Finishing & Assembly:
- 120 grams cooked bacon, chopped
- 110 grams sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Preparation:
Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Cook for 6–8 minutes until beef is browned and onions are translucent.
Step 2: Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic. Drain excess fat from the skillet, then season with seasoned salt.
Step 3: Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, instant rice, and beef broth. Mix until fully integrated.
Step 4: Bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broth is absorbed and rice is tender.
Step 5: Remove from heat. Stir in half the shredded cheese and half the chopped bacon until the cheese melts and mixture becomes cohesive.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon evenly over the surface. Cover and let stand for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese with residual steam.
Step 7: Lightly grease the inside of a 7–10 cm cooking ring mold and position it on a serving plate. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the rice mixture to the mold and press firmly to form a stable base.
Step 8: Sprinkle reserved bacon and cheddar in the center for a melted core.
Step 9: Spoon additional rice mixture over the center and press gently to compact and stabilize the stack. Scatter remaining bacon and cheese on top.
Step 10: Optionally, briefly broil or torch for a golden finish, then cover for 2–3 minutes to allow layers to settle. Gently remove the ring mold while pressing softly on the top to maintain stack integrity. Serve immediately while hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Fun and Unique: It’s a playful twist on a classic cheeseburger, presented in an eye-catching stack.
- Flavorful: All the beloved bacon cheeseburger flavors are packed into each bite.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust the toppings and cheese to your liking.
- Comfort Food: It’s a satisfying and comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of your favorite burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and sliced red onion.
- Offer a selection of condiments such as mayonnaise, burger sauce, or spicy mayo.
- Pair with a side of crispy French fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Ensure the rice absorbs all broth for optimal texture. Adjust the amount of broth slightly if needed.
- Use a high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for optimal texture.
- Don’t overcook the rice mixture, or it may become mushy.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Information (approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Conclusion:
The Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Stack is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a new and exciting format. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or provolone.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- While best served immediately, you can prepare the beef and rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before assembling the stacks.
- Can I add other toppings to the stack?
- Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings. Consider adding caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or a fried egg.
- Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?
- Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. Cook the rice according to package directions until tender, then proceed with the recipe.
- How do I prevent the stack from falling apart?
- Make sure to press the rice mixture firmly into the ring mold to create a stable base. Allowing the cheese to melt and bind the mixture together will also help.
