Ro-Tel Rice
Ro-Tel Rice is a flavorful, cheesy casserole combining tender rice, seasoned ground beef, and spicy Ro-Tel tomatoes. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its hearty and cheesy profile appeals to all ages and pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- In a large casserole dish, combine cooked ground beef with all remaining ingredients except grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until heated thoroughly, about 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with grated cheese, and return to oven until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup or sour cream to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, use a can of Ro-Tel with green chilies. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version. Adding diced bell peppers or corn can also enhance the flavor and texture, making it a versatile dish. Explore similar flavors in recipes like Cheesy Beef Cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ro-Tel Rice with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips for dipping, making it a great party dish. For added flavor, consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side. This dish also complements recipes like Ground Beef Dip for a hearty gathering.
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 with a splash of water to maintain moisture, covering it with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ro-Tel Rice contains roughly 418 calories, with 20g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 995mg per serving (43% 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 Ro-Tel Rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to serve, bake it until heated through, adding the cheese at the end.
What can I use instead of Ro-Tel tomatoes?
If you don't have Ro-Tel tomatoes, you can substitute with diced tomatoes and add a bit of diced green chilies for the same flavor. Alternatively, using regular diced tomatoes with a sprinkle of chili powder can also work well.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, or even spinach can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the ground beef or mix them in with the other ingredients before baking.
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).