Prairie Rice Hash
A hearty and flavorful baked rice hash featuring ground beef, vegetables, and spices, perfect for satisfying weeknight dinners or family meals with a comforting, savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook and stir ground beef until light brown; drain off fat.
- Add sliced onions and chopped green pepper; cook and stir until onions are tender.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, uncooked rice, chili powder, salt, and pepper; heat through.
- Pour the mixture into an ungreased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven, add corn to the casserole, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute the regular rice with brown rice for a healthier choice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a bit more heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Prairie Rice Hash is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal. For a more substantial dish, pair it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. This hearty recipe also goes well with a fresh salsa or guacamole, adding a delightful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Prairie Rice Hash contains roughly 653 calories, with 21g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (349% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 770mg per serving (33% 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 make Prairie Rice Hash in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, pour it into the casserole dish and follow the baking instructions. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your meal even tastier.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you're looking for a healthier protein option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or black beans. Both options will provide a hearty and satisfying meal, maintaining the essence of this delicious dish.
Can I freeze Prairie Rice Hash?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to enjoy a homemade meal later.
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).