Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Stack

This bacon cheeseburger rice stack blends all the hearty flavors of a classic burger into a comforting layered rice dish. It is perfect when you want a filling meal that feels special but doesn’t require complicated steps. Layers of seasoned ground beef, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar come together with tangy tomato sauce and mustard for an easy dinner that pleases the whole family.

I first tried this recipe on a lazy Sunday when I was craving a burger but didn’t feel like grilling. It quickly became a favorite because it captures everything I love about bacon cheeseburgers without the fuss or mess. Now it’s on regular rotation.

Ingredients

• Ground beef (80/20 blend): brings a great balance of flavor and juiciness essential for a rich base
• Yellow onion: adds sweetness and depth once cooked down—choose firm, fresh onions for best flavor
• Fresh garlic: gives a fragrant punch; minced fresh works best for that immediate garlicky warmth
• Seasoned salt: is key for layering savory notes—use one with a good balance of herbs and spices rather than plain table salt
• Tomato sauce: delivers tang and moisture, opting for one without added sugar helps keep it balanced
• Ketchup: adds sweetness and a familiar burger flavor, pick your favorite brand for consistency
• Yellow mustard: offers acidity and a sharp contrast that brightens the dish
• Instant rice: speeds up the cooking process and soaks up all the savory liquids beautifully—choose good quality for fluffiness
• Beef broth: enriches the flavor and creates the perfect rice cooking liquid, homemade or low sodium is best
• Cooked bacon: provides smoky saltiness and crunchy texture, fresh cooked and chopped is ideal
• Sharp cheddar cheese: melts into creamy pockets of flavor—go for a well-aged cheese for more bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Beef and Onions:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat up with a spatula. Cook for six to eight minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. This step builds a savory base by caramelizing the meat and softening the onions.

Add Garlic and Season:

Stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute until aromatic but not burned. Drain excess fat from the pan to prevent greasiness. Sprinkle in seasoned salt to evenly distribute flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Combine the Sauces and Rice:

Mix in tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, instant rice, and beef broth. Thoroughly combine so the rice is fully covered with liquid and the sauces meld together. This ensures every grain soaks up flavor as it cooks.

Cook the Rice Mixture:

Bring the skillet contents to a gentle simmer. Let cook for two to three minutes while stirring occasionally. The broth will be absorbed and the rice will become tender. Stirring prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.

Incorporate Bacon and Cheese:

Remove from heat and immediately stir in half of the shredded cheddar and half of the chopped bacon. The cheese melts into the mix, binding it gently, while bacon adds bursts of smoky crunch with every bite.

Layer and Melt the Toppings:

Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon evenly across the top. Cover the skillet and let stand for two to three minutes. This steaming melts the cheese on top, giving a gooey, irresistible finish.

Prepare the Mold and Build the Stack:

Lightly grease the inside of a seven to ten centimeter ring mold and place it on a serving plate. Spoon two to three tablespoons of the rice mixture into the mold, pressing firmly to create a solid base layer.

Add a Bacon and Cheese Core:

Sprinkle reserved bacon and cheddar in the center to form a melty core inside the stack. Spoon more rice over this to cover and press gently, stabilizing the layers.

Finish the Stack:

Scatter the last of the bacon and cheese on top. Optionally, broil briefly or use a torch for a golden crust, then cover for two to three minutes to let the stack set. This step adds texture and improves presentation.

Serve Carefully:

Remove the ring mold with care, pressing softly on top to maintain shape. Serve hot to enjoy every melted, savory layer.

Save

My favorite part is the melty cheese and bacon core buried in the middle. It feels like a little surprise every time you cut into the stack. Family meals always get a little louder when this one comes to the table because everyone loves the rich, smoky flavors.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or covered in a low oven to keep the cheese melty without drying out the rice. You can also freeze individual portions wrapped tightly for up to a month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version but expect less fat and slightly different flavor
• Use turkey bacon or smoked sausage to change up the smoky element and customize the dish
• Any well-melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella works if you prefer a milder taste
• For a vegetarian twist, swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and add a plant-based bacon alternative

Serving Suggestions

• A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables provide a refreshing balance to this rich dish
• Pickles or a tangy coleslaw add nice acidity and crunch
• Serve with ketchup or a spicy mayo on the side to mimic classic burger condiments
• This stack also shines alongside baked beans or roasted potatoes for a comfort food feast

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder, creamier flavor.

→ How can I make the stack more crispy?

Briefly broiling or using a kitchen torch on top helps brown the cheese and bacon, adding a crispy golden finish.

→ Is instant rice necessary for this dish?

Instant rice works best for quick absorption of flavors, but you can experiment with other rice types by adjusting cooking time.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the stack can be assembled and refrigerated, then reheated gently before serving to maintain texture.

→ What are good seasoning alternatives for seasoned salt?

Try combining smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper for a flavorful homemade seasoning blend.

→ How to ensure the stack holds together well?

Using a ring mold and pressing each layer firmly helps maintain the shape when serving.