California Hash
A hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, beans, rice, and melted cheese, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners with a touch of Southwest flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked and drain excess fat.
- Add the kidney beans, cooked rice, chili powder, salt, chopped green peppers (if using), chopped onions, and tomato sauce to the beef.
- Mix well and heat through until hot.
- Sprinkle the grated Cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
- Serve with Tostado chips or Fritos and a tossed salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils. You can also use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different flavor. Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference. Adding some diced tomatoes or corn can enhance the dish's texture and flavor. If you have leftovers, consider using them to make a filling for tacos or burritos.
Serving Suggestions
Serve California Hash hot, topped with melted Cheddar cheese. It pairs beautifully with Tostado chips or Fritos for added crunch. A fresh tossed salad on the side can balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving with cornbread or a side of steamed vegetables. This dish also makes for a great filling for burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a covered dish until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Hash contains roughly 746 calories, with 46g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (280% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (129% of the Daily Value), and protein (91% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2540mg per serving (110% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as lean meats may cook faster. If using a different type of meat, consider adding additional seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of chili powder or add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix. For an extra kick, consider serving with hot sauce on the side. Adjusting the spice level allows you to customize the dish to your taste preference.
Can I freeze California Hash?
Yes, you can freeze California Hash for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
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).