Spanish Rice(Quick-Easy-Cheap)
A quick and budget-friendly Spanish-inspired rice dish packed with flavorful salsa, cheesy topping, and hearty beef, perfect for a satisfying family meal or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the hamburger.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Combine the cooked rice, browned hamburger, chunky salsa, and spaghetti sauce in a baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using a hot salsa or adding diced jalapeños to the mix. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you're looking for a leaner option. Additionally, brown rice can be used instead of white rice for added nutrition, but remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Explore more Mexican recipes to find other delightful dishes that complement this one.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Rice dish pairs well with a fresh side salad or some warm tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal experience. You can also serve it alongside Huevos Rancheros Tome Style for a delightful brunch option. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Rice(Quick-Easy-Cheap) contains roughly 582 calories, with 25g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1271mg per serving (55% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the hamburger and using a plant-based meat substitute or just adding more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also increase the amount of beans for added protein.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Shredded cheddar cheese is a popular choice for this recipe, but you can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile. Just choose your favorite cheese to suit your taste!
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).