Beef And Black-Eyed Peas
Hearty beef and black-eyed peas combine with rice and cheese for a flavorful baked dish, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a mild spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with garlic in a skillet.
- Add the drained tomatoes, chopped onion, black-eyed peas with jalapeno, cooked rice, butter, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful boost, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika to the beef while browning. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or use diced mushrooms. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese; pepper jack can add a nice kick. To save time, use precooked rice or frozen black-eyed peas.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added crunch, serve with tortilla chips or warm cornbread on the side. You can also top it with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for an extra layer of flavor. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside a bowl of soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the dish to a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed and cheese is bubbly again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Black-Eyed Peas contains roughly 1730 calories, with 42g protein, 215g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black-eyed peas, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Typically, you'd soak them overnight and then boil until tender, which may take 30-45 minutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly in the recipe to ensure they’re fully cooked before adding to the mixture.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or a mixture of chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. This will still provide a hearty texture and complement the black-eyed peas nicely.
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).