Soupy Beef and Rice Dish

This Soupy Beef and Rice Dish is a comforting and hearty meal that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, onions, and tomatoes with perfectly cooked rice. It’s an easy one-pan recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying, soupy texture that’s both filling and delicious.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a delightful dish that warms the soul and pleases the palate. Enjoy it as is, or customize it with your favorite spices and herbs!

Soupy Beef and Rice Dish

Ingredients

1 cup ground beef

1/4 cup onion, diced

1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine)

1/2 cup tomato, diced

1 tablespoon Knorr Caldo de Tomate

1 teaspoon garlic powder (or garlic salt, to taste)

Salt, to taste

Water (enough to fill the pan)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a small pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Onions

Stir in the diced onions and cook until they are softened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the pan and toast it with the beef and onions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Mix in the diced tomato, garlic powder, and Knorr Caldo de Tomate. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Add Water

Fill the pan with water until it reaches the top of the mixture. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6: Simmer

Let the mixture simmer over low heat. Do not cover the pan, as you want the dish to remain soupy. Stir occasionally, and if it starts to dry out, add more water as needed.

Step 7: Cook Until Done

Simmer until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed some liquid, about 15-20 minutes. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 8: Serve

Enjoy this hearty, soupy beef and rice dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired!

Notes:

Rice Variety: While long-grain or jasmine rice works well, you can also use basmati or even brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time and water ratio if using brown rice, as it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas for added flavor and nutrition. You can also incorporate spices such as cumin or paprika for extra depth.

Broth Options: For more flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water. This enhances the dish’s savory notes.

Soupiness: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of water added. Alternatively, if it becomes too thick, simply add more water to reach your desired soupy texture.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. You can also top it with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Adjust cooking times as needed.

What if I don’t have Knorr Caldo de Tomate?

If you don’t have Knorr Caldo de Tomate, you can substitute it with any other seasoning or bouillon cube, or simply add extra diced tomatoes and season with salt to taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, you can include diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.

Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance.

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, you may need to add a bit of water to restore the soupy consistency.

What should I serve with this dish?

This soupy beef and rice dish is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal.

Do I need to brown the ground beef before adding other ingredients?

Yes, browning the ground beef first enhances its flavor and texture.

It helps to develop a rich, savory base for the dish.

Can I use cooked rice instead of raw?

While it’s possible to use cooked rice, the cooking time will need to be adjusted.

Add the cooked rice towards the end of the cooking process just to heat through, as it won’t need the same amount of liquid or cooking time as raw rice.

What type of pan should I use for this dish?

A small to medium-sized saucepan or a skillet works well for this recipe.

Just ensure it has enough capacity to hold all the ingredients and allows for simmering.

How do I know when the rice is done?

The rice is done when it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

It typically takes about 15-20 minutes of simmering, but check for doneness and adjust cooking time as needed.

What if I want a thicker consistency?

If you prefer a thicker dish, you can reduce the amount of water added at the beginning or let it simmer longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.

Stirring occasionally will help achieve the desired texture.