Ranger Rice With Beef
Ranger Rice With Beef is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, vegetables, and rice in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook ground beef, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion with minced garlic until vegetables are tender.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add tomato soup, water, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and cook for about 10 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you don’t have quick-cooking rice, regular rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish is versatile; feel free to toss in other vegetables like corn or peas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ranger Rice with Beef alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For an extra kick, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave portions in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ranger Rice With Beef contains roughly 254 calories, with 8g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 814mg per serving (35% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook it as directed, then let it cool before storing in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Simply reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or busy weeknights.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of water used. Typically, brown rice requires about 2 cups of water for every cup of rice, and the cooking time can extend to 20-30 minutes. Adjust accordingly for best results.
What can I serve with Ranger Rice?
Ranger Rice pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh garden salad. You might also consider serving it with cornbread or a light soup for a hearty meal. For an extra flavor boost, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.
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).