Rice Oriental
A hearty and flavorful rice casserole with ground beef, vegetables, and savory seasonings, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, green pepper, onion, and celery together in a frypan.
- In a 2 1/2 to 3-quart covered casserole, dissolve the Lipton noodle soup mix in hot water.
- Add the cooked hamburger mixture to the casserole.
- Stir in the Minute rice, chopped pimento, and chopped mushrooms.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Add almonds if desired before serving.
- Serve with soy sauce at the table.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or soy sauce to the hamburger mixture while browning. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute. You can also swap the Lipton noodle soup mix for homemade broth and seasonings to control sodium levels.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with soy sauce at the table for added flavor. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you want to elevate your dinner, serve with crusty bread or a light appetizer like spring rolls. For a complete menu, browse more American recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice oriental in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Oriental contains roughly 518 calories, with 18g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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 rice?
Yes, you can substitute other types of rice, but be mindful of the cooking times. Long-grain rice may require additional water and cooking time. Instant rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn. Just ensure they are chopped evenly for consistent cooking. This flexibility allows you to make it your own or use up leftover veggies.
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).