Junk Over Rice
Junk Over Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and vegetables served over fluffy rice, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal for any crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start cooking the white rice.
- While the rice is cooking, brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain the grease from the beef mixture, then season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomato sauce and drained stewed tomatoes to the beef mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer.
- Add the drained green beans and mushrooms to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked and the flavors meld together.
- Serve the hot beef and vegetable mixture over mounds of cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can also be added for extra nutrition. Be sure to drain the canned vegetables well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef and vegetable mixture over the cooked rice in bowls, garnished with chopped parsley or grated cheese if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed broccoli. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or pairing it with E-Z Hamburgers for a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power until heated through, or warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Junk Over Rice contains roughly 597 calories, with 23g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2448mg per serving (106% 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 for a healthier option. Just be aware that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. You may need to increase the amount of liquid and cooking time slightly to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used instead of ground beef. Each will bring a unique flavor to the dish while keeping it satisfying. Adjust cooking times as needed, especially for leaner meats.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and portion it into individual containers. It reheats well and the flavors only improve after sitting in the refrigerator, making it a perfect choice for busy weekdays.
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).