Spanish Beef Rice
A hearty Spanish-inspired beef and rice dish with bold tomato flavors, seasoned with chili powder and mustard, perfect for family dinners and comforting casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet or saucepan.
- Add chopped onion, sliced green pepper, ground beef, and uncooked rice.
- Stir over high heat until the ingredients are slightly browned.
- Add tomato sauce, hot water, salt, pepper, mustard, and chili powder if desired, then mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 25 minutes until rice is cooked and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water. If you want a spicier kick, add a bit of chili powder or your favorite hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or use quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spanish Beef Rice with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Craig's French Onion Soup for a comforting dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or dinner option.
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 skillet and cover it to steam the rice gently, preventing it from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions; just cover them to keep moisture in.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Beef Rice contains roughly 631 calories, with 24g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% 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 brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, around 40-45 minutes. Make sure to check the texture and adjust accordingly.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
You can add peas, corn, or diced carrots for extra nutrition and color. Just stir them in when you add the tomato sauce and water, ensuring they have enough time to cook through while the rice simmers.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or microwave when you're ready to serve. The flavors will meld even more overnight, making it even tastier.
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).