The “Parish Hall” Queso Beef & Rice
This version uses a “Two-Cheese” system: a creamy processed cheese for the “melt” and sharp cheddar for the “bite.”
| Category | Details |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Yield | 6–8 servings |
🍴 Ingredients
- The Sizzle:
- 1 lb Ground beef (80/20)
- 1 Medium onion, finely diced
- 1 Bell pepper, diced
- The Grains & Broth:
- 1 ½ cups Long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3 cups Beef broth
- 1 packet Taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp chili powder/cumin mix)
- The “Queso” Melt:
- 8 oz Velveeta or “Easy-Melt” cheese, cubed (This is the “Church Supper” secret for creaminess)
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar, shredded
- 1 can (10 oz) Ro-Tel (Diced tomatoes and green chiles)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. The Beef & Grain Sauté
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper.
- The Toast: Once the beef is browned, do not drain the fat yet. Add the uncooked rice to the pan. Stir constantly for 3 minutes until the rice looks toasted and smells fragrant. Now, drain any excessive grease if necessary.
2. The Seasoned Simmer
- Pour in the beef broth, taco seasoning, and the Ro-Tel (with the juices).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3. The Queso Fold
- Turn off the heat. Spread the Velveeta cubes over the top of the hot rice.
- Place the lid back on for 2 minutes to let the residual steam melt the cheese.
4. The Final Emulsion
- Remove the lid and stir vigorously. The processed cheese will emulsify with the small amount of remaining moisture to create a “velvet” sauce that coats every grain of rice and beef.
5. The Cheddar Cap
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar over the top. Cover for one more minute until melted. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños if you want to be fancy.
The “Potluck” Tip: If you are transporting this, stir in ½ cup of hot water or extra broth before leaving. Rice continues to absorb moisture as it sits; the extra liquid ensures it stays “creamy queso” style rather than becoming a “rice brick” by the time you arrive.