Ground Meat & Rice
Ground Meat & Rice is a comforting, hearty dish featuring savory browned meat combined with creamy mushroom and chicken noodle soups, cooked with rice in a quick, one-pan method. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers rich flavors and satisfying textures for families and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the mushroom soup, chicken noodle soup, Minute Rice, and water to the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. If you don't have Minute Rice, regular rice can work, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Adding frozen mixed vegetables can enhance nutrition and color. You can also experiment with adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauces. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Chicken Corn Noodle Soup for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Meat & Rice contains roughly 532 calories, with 31g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% 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 different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used as alternatives. Each type will provide a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if needed, as leaner meats might require less time to brown.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can substitute ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives or even mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of soups to maintain flavor. Additionally, adding beans or lentils will increase protein while keeping it satisfying and nutritious.
What can I serve this dish with?
This Ground Meat & Rice dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it alongside a comforting bowl of Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole for a filling meal. For a lighter option, consider a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans.
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).