Spicy Beef Rice Casserole
A flavorful spicy beef and rice casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, green peppers, tomato wedges, and melted cheddar, perfect for a quick and hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place beef and green pepper in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring once or twice to break beef into small bits.
- Add remaining ingredients and heat until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder to your taste or add diced jalapeños. If you don't have green peppers, try using a mix of bell peppers or even zucchini for a different flavor profile. Leftover cooked rice works perfectly here, making this casserole a great way to use up extras from your previous meals like Fried Rice or Quick Macaroni And Beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spicy Beef Rice Casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a fun twist, consider serving it with sour cream or guacamole on the side. This dish is a crowd-pleaser similar to other hearty beef recipes, making it perfect for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave for quick warming or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating can give it a nice melty finish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Beef Rice Casserole contains roughly 119 calories, with 7g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2212mg per serving (96% 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 chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Adjust the cooking time as lean meats may cook faster. Season them well to ensure the dish remains flavorful.
What can I serve this casserole with?
This casserole is great on its own but can be complemented with sides like a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even tortilla chips for extra crunch. You might also enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it convenient for future meals.
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).