Ground Beef Creole With Rice
A hearty Creole-inspired ground beef and vegetable dish served over fluffy rice, bursting with smoky paprika, tomatoes, and spicy cayenne for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Spoon off excess fat.
- Drain tomato liquid into the meat mixture.
- Set the tomatoes aside.
- Add green pepper, celery, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked paprika and fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves. If you’re short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can be a great time-saver. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. This dish can also be made with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ground Beef Creole over hot cooked rice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. A side of cornbread or a simple green salad pairs perfectly, balancing the dish’s richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a side of garlic bread or with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the mixture appears dry, add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef Creole With Rice contains roughly 507 calories, with 12g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1530mg per serving (67% 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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground beef. Each option will bring its own flavor, but be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may require less time to brown.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving over freshly cooked rice. This also allows the flavors to meld further, enhancing the dish’s taste.
What can I serve with Ground Beef Creole?
Ground Beef Creole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a more filling meal, consider sides like cornbread or roasted potatoes. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of spicy gumbo for a Southern-inspired feast.
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).