Hamburger-Rice Skillet
A hearty skillet dish combining seasoned ground meat, rice, and vegetables with flavorful tomatoes and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile flavor profiles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook ground beef or pork, sliced onion, chopped green pepper, and minced garlic until the meat is browned.
- Drain off the fat.
- Add the rice to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
- Add undrained tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, basil, 1 1/2 cups water, and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the cover if desired.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded American cheese or processed cheese spread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer ground turkey or chicken, they can be used as a leaner substitute for the ground beef or pork. Adding a handful of frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes of cooking can enhance the dish's color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hamburger-Rice Skillet hot, optionally garnished with shredded American cheese or processed cheese spread for added creaminess. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a different twist, consider serving with crusty bread or alongside the Appetizer Beef Patties for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger-Rice Skillet contains roughly 303 calories, with 17g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. At about 303 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so add extra water and simmer longer until it's tender. Keep an eye on the liquid levels to ensure it doesn't dry out.
What can I substitute for tomatoes if I don't have canned ones?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes, about 2-3 medium, diced. Alternatively, you can substitute with tomato puree or even a jar of marinara sauce for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the water accordingly to ensure the right consistency.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with a mix of cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu. You may also want to add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to enhance the dish's texture and flavor.
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).