Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.

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Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
Increase heat to bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until rice absorbs the broth and is tender.
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat, then stir in Parmesan, cheddar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Pour cheese sauce into the skillet with the beef and rice, mixing until well combined.
Cook uncovered for a few more minutes to meld flavors; garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Use pre-shredded cheese to save prep time. This recipe can be customized with leftover cooked rice; adjust broth and seasoning accordingly.