Hot Tomato Hamburger With Rice
Hot Tomato Hamburger With Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef with zesty Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies, all nestled on a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish offers a delightful mix of spices and textures that will satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in hot oil, separating with a fork as it cooks.
- Add green pepper and onion and continue to fry on medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Drain excess fat.
- Gently stir in salt, pepper, Ro-Tel tomatoes, reserved Ro-Tel liquid, and rice.
- Cover and reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for about 15 minutes. Do not uncover or stir during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using spicy Ro-Tel tomatoes or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and brown rice can replace white rice for added fiber. Ensure the rice is rinsed well before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming gummy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot tomato hamburger over a bed of rice, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider accompanying it with cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the dish to prevent drying out, cover, and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method keeps the rice fluffy and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Tomato Hamburger With Rice contains roughly 389 calories, with 12g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (156% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 970mg per serving (42% 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 cooked rice instead of uncooked?
Yes, you can use cooked rice! If using cooked rice, reduce the liquid added to the dish, as the rice will already have absorbed moisture. Stir in the cooked rice in the last few minutes of cooking to heat through without overcooking.
What can I substitute for Ro-Tel tomatoes?
If you can't find Ro-Tel tomatoes, you can use diced tomatoes mixed with a small amount of diced green chilies or jalapeños to achieve a similar flavor profile. Adding a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the heat.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. You can also increase the amount of bell peppers and onions for added flavor and texture, making it a hearty vegetarian option.
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).