Beef Enchilada Rice
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground meat, rice, and cheese, perfect for a quick, satisfying Mexican-inspired meal for families and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger or turkey with chopped onion and green pepper in a skillet until cooked, then drain well.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, dry enchilada spice mix, Pace picante sauce, and tomato juice.
- Fold in the cooked meat mixture into the rice mixture.
- Place the combined mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger for a leaner option. You can substitute the Pace picante sauce with homemade salsa for a fresh twist. If you want more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. This dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite beans or veggies, similar to Taco Rice Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef Enchilada Rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices for added richness. It pairs well with a simple green salad or corn on the side. Consider serving it alongside Taglinini-Mexican Spaghetti for a delightful Mexican-themed meal. For extra crunch, tortilla chips make a great accompaniment.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the enchilada rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Enchilada Rice contains roughly 746 calories, with 22g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1339mg per serving (58% 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 white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option. Just make sure it's fully cooked before adding it to the mixture, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still work well in this dish.
Is it possible to freeze the Beef Enchilada Rice?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese alternative, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican blend work beautifully in this recipe. Each will add a unique flavor profile, so choose according to your taste preferences. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese substitute.
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).