Beef And Rice Pie For Microwave
A hearty microwave beef and rice pie with savory tomato sauce, melted cheese, and flavorful spices, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or satisfying comfort meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped green pepper and onion.
- Cook on High in microwave for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add ground beef, bread crumbs, and half of the tomato sauce to the vegetables; cook until beef is browned.
- Pat the meat mixture into a casserole dish to form a crust.
- Mix remaining tomato sauce, spices, water, rice, and a quarter of the cheese.
- Pour the rice mixture over the meat crust.
- Cover with plastic wrap and cook at 70% power for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Uncover and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Let stand for 5 minutes in the microwave before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian-style bread crumbs or adding some minced garlic to the vegetable mixture. If you prefer, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. To save time, use pre-cooked rice instead of Minute rice, but adjust the water accordingly. This dish is reminiscent of American recipes that combine hearty ingredients for comfort food.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beef And Rice Pie with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a slice of Black-Eyed Cornbread for added texture. For a heartier meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power until heated through, about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently. For best results, reheat in a microwave-safe dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Rice Pie For Microwave contains roughly 899 calories, with 31g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (184% of the Daily Value), and calcium (151% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2667mg per serving (116% 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 brown rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires more cooking time and liquid. Adjust the water to about 2 cups and cook the dish longer, ensuring the rice is fully cooked and tender before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and rice mixture ahead of time. Assemble the pie and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then microwave as directed when ready to cook.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a great choice for its melting quality and flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for added richness. Feel free to experiment with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different twist!
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).