Ragu Beef Over Rice
A hearty and flavorful beef ragu served over fluffy rice, perfect for a satisfying family dinner with rich tomato sauce and savory ground beef.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium-sized saucepan, brown the ground beef along with chopped onion and chopped green pepper.
- Turn the heat to low and add the jar of Ragu spaghetti sauce. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Prepare Minute rice as directed on the package.
- Pour the beef and sauce mixture over the cooked rice in individual servings.
- Serve with a salad and breadsticks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture while browning. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Chopped mushrooms can also add a nice texture and flavor to the sauce. If you prefer a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. This recipe is versatile, similar to Savory Sloppy Joes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ragu beef over rice with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, and add breadsticks for a complete meal. Pairing with a light vinaigrette salad can enhance the flavors beautifully. For a fun twist, try serving it with a creamy dip like Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato Dip for a unique appetizer that complements the main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it appears too dry. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ragu Beef Over Rice contains roughly 543 calories, with 13g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 768mg 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 use different types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely substitute different meats in this recipe. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner option, while ground pork can add a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure all meats are fully cooked.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to add more texture and flavor to the ragu sauce.
What can I do if I don't have Minute rice?
If you don't have Minute rice, you can use regular long-grain rice or even brown rice. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times will vary. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of water and cooking time to achieve the desired texture.
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).