Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Stack (Print-Friendly Version)

Layers of savory beef, cheddar, rice, and crispy bacon create a comforting and flavorful mealtime favorite.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
04 - 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
05 - 1 cup tomato sauce
06 - 1/4 cup ketchup
07 - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
08 - 2 cups instant rice
09 - 2 cups beef broth
10 - 4 ounces cooked bacon, chopped
11 - 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Break up the beef with a spatula and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and the onions are translucent.
02 - Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until aromatic. Drain any excess fat and evenly sprinkle seasoned salt over the mixture.
03 - Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, instant rice, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are fully integrated.
04 - Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broth is absorbed and rice is tender.
05 - Remove skillet from heat. Mix in half of the shredded cheddar and half of the chopped bacon, stirring until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes cohesive.
06 - Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and bacon evenly over the surface. Cover and let stand for 2 to 3 minutes so the cheese melts using residual heat.
07 - Lightly grease the inside of a 3 to 4 inch ($\approx$ 7 to 10 cm) cooking ring mold. Place the mold on a serving plate and press 2 to 3 tablespoons of the rice mixture firmly into the mold to form a stable base.
08 - Add reserved bacon and cheddar in the center layer for a melted core.
09 - Layer more rice mixture on top, gently pressing to stabilize the stack. Sprinkle with any remaining bacon and cheese.
10 - Optional: Briefly broil or use a kitchen torch to create a golden cheese finish. Cover for 2 to 3 minutes to allow layers to settle. Gently unmold while pressing softly on the top to keep stack integrity. Serve immediately while hot.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Ensure the rice fully absorbs the broth for optimal structure and mouthfeel.
02 - Season to taste based on preference after rice is cooked.