Spanish Rice In A Pot
A hearty one-pot Spanish-inspired rice dish with ground beef, tomato sauce, and smoky barbecue flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a pot until cooked through.
- Drain the meat and set aside in a dish.
- Brown uncooked rice in the meat drippings in the same pot.
- Add tomato sauce, water, barbecue sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to the rice.
- Return the cooked meat to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes until rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Brown the rice thoroughly for a nuttier taste, and keep an eye on the pot to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spanish rice as a hearty main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Zippy Beef Spread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, top with shredded cheese, avocado, or cilantro before serving. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Rice In A Pot contains roughly 1027 calories, with 34g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Spanish rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It's a great make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What can I serve with Spanish rice?
Spanish rice pairs well with various dishes, including grilled chicken, fish, or even a simple green salad. You can also serve it alongside beans for a complete meal. Consider topping it with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Spanish rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier.
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).