Western Skillet Rice
A hearty Western skillet rice dish combining ground beef, tomatoes, peas, and melted cheese for a flavorful, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the onion soup mix, water, rice, stewed tomatoes, and cooked peas.
- Simmer covered for 25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Top with shredded sharp cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use brown rice instead of processed white rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. To enhance flavor, add garlic or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Western Skillet Rice with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or sliced avocados on top. For a family-friendly option, consider serving it alongside Tammie'S Chili Beans for a hearty dinner that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, and cook until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Skillet Rice contains roughly 656 calories, with 32g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 806mg per serving (35% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the water to 2 cups and simmer for around 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Keep in mind that the dish may have a nuttier flavor with brown rice.
What can I substitute for stewed tomatoes?
If you don't have stewed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute. You may want to add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity if you use diced tomatoes. Canned tomato sauce can also work in a pinch.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Western Skillet Rice, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side or mix in some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking for an extra kick.
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).