Hamburger Pilaf
A hearty and flavorful rice dish featuring seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a savory chili sauce, perfect for satisfying weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a skillet, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Cover and let steam for 15 minutes.
- Stir in catsup (or chili sauce) and chili powder.
- Add the sliced carrots, uncooked rice, water, and salt.
- Cover and cook for 20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding bell peppers or diced tomatoes to the mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or beef for the ground chuck if you prefer a leaner option. If you like more heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or use spicy chili sauce instead of catsup. Always rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and improve texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hamburger Pilaf hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a more filling dish, consider serving it alongside Grandma Paylor'S Sourdough Bread to soak up the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pilaf and cover it while heating in the microwave to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Pilaf contains roughly 484 calories, with 14g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (139% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1453mg per serving (63% 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, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio. Brown rice usually requires more water and a longer cooking time, often about 40-45 minutes. Make sure to check the package instructions for the best results.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
For a vegetarian option, simply replace the ground chuck with a plant-based meat substitute or use lentils as the base protein, creating a delicious vegan version of this pilaf.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Hamburger Pilaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.
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).