Spanish Rice With Meat
Spanish Rice With Meat is a hearty, flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and vegetables baked together for a comforting meal. Its savory layers and rich tomato notes make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of textures and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ground beef and rice in a skillet; brown the meat and cook the rice.
- Transfer the browned mixture to a casserole dish.
- Coarsely chop the onion, green pepper, celery, and tomatoes, then layer them over the meat and rice in the casserole.
- Do not stir the layers together.
- Sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until cooked through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the beef while browning. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives. You can also substitute the rice with quinoa for a healthier option. For an extra kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish goes well with a side of Zesty Sauerkraut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spanish Rice With Meat warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Russian Pea Salad, which adds a nice contrast to the flavors. Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Spanish Rice With Meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Rice With Meat contains roughly 274 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% 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 dish a day in advance. Simply assemble it in the casserole dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice is ideal for this dish, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. However, you can also use jasmine or basmati rice for a slightly different taste and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the rice type you choose.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can enhance the nutrition and flavor by adding vegetables like corn, peas, or diced carrots. Simply mix them in with the meat and rice before transferring to the casserole dish. This not only adds color but also complements the overall dish without overpowering it.
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).