Jambalya
A hearty and flavorful jambalaya with ground beef, vegetables, and rice, perfect for family dinners and those craving a comforting, savory dish with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, green pepper, onion, and garlic in a large skillet and sauté until beef is browned.
- Combine the cooked mixture with tomato soup and rice in a large casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground beef with sausage or turkey. You can also enhance the dish with a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or a splash of hot sauce. If fresh vegetables are available, diced tomatoes or celery can be great additions. To make it a one-pot meal, cook the rice in the same skillet after browning the meat and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your jambalaya with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions on top can elevate the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Corned Beef Potato Salad for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jambalya contains roughly 638 calories, with 25g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 989mg per serving (43% 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?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to add additional liquid and extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of tomato soup for a flavorful base, and include more vegetables like zucchini and carrots to boost nutrition.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, jambalaya can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When you're ready to eat, simply bake it from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).