5 Spice, Beef And Rice
A hearty beef and rice casserole seasoned with Chinese five-spice, topped with cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, bay leaves, and cooked rice to the browned meat.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. If you prefer a creamier dish, substitute sour cream for the cream of mushroom soup. You can also use leftover cooked rice instead of Minute rice to save time. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and feel free to experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside Baked Beans, which complement the flavors nicely. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese before serving for added appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5 Spice, Beef And Rice contains roughly 983 calories, with 36g protein, 213g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (213% of the Daily Value), and calcium (149% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 739mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of hamburger in this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger. It will provide a lighter flavor, and you may want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste. Just ensure it's cooked thoroughly, as turkey can be drier than beef.
What can I add for more vegetables in this dish?
You can incorporate vegetables like peas, corn, or diced carrots for added nutrition and color. Just add them in with the tomato sauce and cream of mushroom soup to allow them to cook through while simmering.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).