Texas Beef Squares
A hearty Texan beef casserole with seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chopped onion, green pepper, and hamburger in a skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes, uncooked rice, salt, chili powder, and pepper to the skillet.
- Cook for 10 minutes and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture into an 8-inch square baking pan.
- Grate 1/4 pound of cheese and sprinkle over the top of the meat mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños. Make sure to rinse the rice before adding it to help improve texture. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes for canned tomatoes if they are in season for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Beef Squares with a side of garlic smashed potatoes with bacon for a comforting meal. A simple green salad or cornbread would also complement this dish nicely. For a heartier option, pair it with Creole Baked Beans for a filling dinner. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Beef Squares contains roughly 389 calories, with 8g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 932mg per serving (41% 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 Texas Beef Squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What kind of cheese works best on top?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice that melts well and adds a nice sharp flavor. However, you can also use Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different twist. For a more indulgent version, consider adding a layer of cream cheese or sour cream underneath the grated cheese.
Can I freeze Texas Beef Squares?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, or reheat from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
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).