Rice Sambrosa
A flavorful baked rice dish with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and those craving hearty comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In an ovenproof skillet, sauté ground beef, chopped onions, and green peppers with chili powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender. Stir frequently to crumble the meat.
- Add canned tomatoes and cooked rice to the skillet and mix well.
- Top with grated sharp cheese, then bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version. If you want extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or some diced jalapeños for heat. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish works well with leftover rice, making it a practical choice for a quick meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rice Sambrosa hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner experience, consider serving it alongside Rachel'S Beans for a delicious flavor combination. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can also enhance the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a moist paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat on medium power until warm throughout, usually about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. This dish can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Sambrosa contains roughly 125 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2291mg per serving (100% 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 Rice Sambrosa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Rice Sambrosa ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, let it cool, and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just bake it until heated through and the cheese is melted.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed, particularly if using leaner meats, which may cook faster.
Can I freeze Rice Sambrosa?
Absolutely! Rice Sambrosa can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
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).