Rice Jamboree
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining ground beef, rice, peas, and tomatoes, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onions in heated shortening until lightly browned.
- Add ground beef and seasonings; cook until beef is brown.
- Add canned peas, liquid from peas, canned tomatoes, and uncooked rice to the meat mixture.
- Stir lightly to combine all ingredients.
- Place the mixture in a greased 2-quart covered casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic or bell peppers when cooking the onions. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option. If you don't have canned peas, frozen peas can be used instead; just add them towards the end of cooking. This dish can also be customized by adding spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick, or try incorporating ingredients from other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Rice Jamboree with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread, making it perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices. For a complete dinner experience, consider serving it alongside a light dessert, such as fruit salad or sorbet, to cleanse the palate after this hearty dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Jamboree contains roughly 501 calories, with 31g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1998mg per serving (87% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Rice Jamboree ahead of time. Just assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming directly from the fridge.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. If substituting, increase the baking time to about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. You may also need to add an additional 1/2 cup of liquid to ensure the brown rice cooks properly.
What can I serve with Rice Jamboree?
Rice Jamboree is delicious on its own, but it can be complemented with various sides. Try serving it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. For those who enjoy bread, crusty rolls or cornbread can enhance the meal. For a touch of freshness, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also be delightful.
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).