Spaghetti Rice
A hearty and comforting dish combining ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce with creamy cheese and chili flavor, perfect for family dinners and satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown beef in skillet and drain.
- Stir in raw rice, water, salt, and chopped onion.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook until water is absorbed, about 25 minutes.
- Stir in cubed cream cheese until it softens.
- Combine tomato sauce and chili powder; pour sauce over rice mixture.
- Cover and heat about 5 minutes or until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a blend of cream cheese and sour cream. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're short on time, instant rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn can enhance the nutritional value and flavor. This dish is reminiscent of comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spaghetti rice with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The dish pairs well with shredded cheese on top for added flavor. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Company Salisbury Steak or similar beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the dish and cover it to prevent drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For best results, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Rice contains roughly 581 calories, with 25g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1343mg per serving (58% 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 spaghetti rice ahead of time. Just follow the recipe and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you don't have cream cheese, you can use ricotta or mascarpone cheese as a substitute. These alternatives will provide a similar creamy texture, though the flavor may vary slightly. For a lower-fat option, consider using Greek yogurt, which will also add a nice tang to the dish.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and you can easily incorporate vegetables like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or frozen peas. Adding vegetables not only boosts the nutritional content but also enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. Just make sure to sauté them with the onions before adding the rice.
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).