Italian Beef and Rice Recipe

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Description

Italian Beef and Rice is a hearty, flavorful one-pot dish that brings together tender ground beef, fragrant herbs, tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s infused with Italian seasonings like oregano, basil, and garlic, making it a comforting weeknight dinner option that’s both filling and simple to prepare. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is a family-friendly favorite.

 Ingredients For Italian Beef and Rice Recipe

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

  • 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp dried basil

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

  2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook another minute.

  3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

  4. Stir in tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release flavors.

  5. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), rice, and broth. Stir well to combine.

  6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes (until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed).

  7. Optional: sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt.

  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings

    • Makes 4 servings (hearty dinner portions).

Nutritional Information (per serving, without cheese topping)

  • Calories: ~365 kcal

  • Protein: 22 g

  • Carbohydrates: 34 g

  • Fat: 14 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: ~680 mg

(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)

Notes

  • You can swap white rice with brown rice, but increase cooking time by 15 minutes.

  • Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be used instead of beef.

  • Adding a handful of spinach or bell peppers boosts nutrition.

  • For extra creaminess, stir in 2 tbsp of cream cheese at the end.

 Tips

  • Don’t lift the lid while the rice is cooking—this ensures fluffy results.

  • If the liquid absorbs too quickly and rice is still firm, add ¼ cup hot broth and continue cooking.

  • Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

 Health Benefits

  • Protein-packed: Beef provides high-quality protein for muscle repair.

  • Balanced meal: Rice and beef together offer a good mix of carbs and protein.

  • Rich in antioxidants: Tomatoes and herbs provide vitamins A & C.

  • Customizable: Can be adapted for lighter or richer versions based on diet needs.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.

Q2: Can I freeze Italian Beef and Rice?
Absolutely. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.

Q3: What side dishes go well with it?
Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted veggies pair perfectly.

Q4: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.

Q5: How can I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, fresh chili, or even a splash of hot sauce.

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