Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This easy hamburger rice recipe is a fantastic solution for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious blend of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and your favorite veggies, all cooked together in one pan for effortless cleanup. Perfect for a family dinner or a quick and satisfying meal for one, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a healthy and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor and color)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional, for added nutrition)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. If using, add the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), rice, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and easy hamburger rice!
Cooking Tips for the Best Hamburger Rice:
- For extra flavor: Use a beef bouillon cube instead of some of the broth.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving for an extra cheesy delight.
Variations:
- Mexican Hamburger Rice: Add a packet of taco seasoning and some diced jalapeños for a zesty twist.
- Mediterranean Hamburger Rice: Incorporate chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing summer meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy hamburger rice recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a truly delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly proves it. Enjoy!