Savory Crock Pot Spanish Beef and Rice
This Savory Crock Pot Spanish Beef and Rice recipe combines hearty ground beef with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all simmered to perfection with juicy tomatoes and seasoned rice. Utilizing the slow cooking method, this dish allows for the flavors to meld together beautifully while saving you time in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, you'll enjoy a warm, filling one-dish meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
2 lbs (browned and drained)
onions
2 medium (chopped)
green bell peppers
2 (chopped)
canned tomatoes
2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans (with juice)
tomato sauce
1 (8 ounce) can (none)
water
1 cup (none)
chili powder
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons (none)
long grain rice
1 cup (uncooked)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it's fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crock pot.
2
Add the chopped onions and green bell peppers to the crock pot, followed by the canned tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, water, chili powder, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and long-grain rice.
3
Stir all the ingredients together until evenly combined. Make sure the rice is submerged in the liquid.
4
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set to cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours, until the rice is tender and flavors are well developed.
5
Once cooked, give the mixture a gentle stir and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Crock Pot Spanish Beef and Rice?
This is a hearty one-dish meal that combines ground beef, bell peppers, and onions, simmered with tomatoes and seasoned rice in a slow cooker.
How much ground beef is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 pounds of lean ground beef.
Do I need to brown the beef before adding it to the crock pot?
Yes, you should brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain the excess fat before transferring it to the crock pot.
What kind of rice is best for this Spanish beef dish?
The recipe specifies 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice.
How long does this take to cook in the slow cooker?
The dish should be cooked on the Low setting for 6 to 8 hours until the rice is tender.
Should I drain the canned tomatoes?
No, the tomatoes should be added with their juice to provide the necessary liquid for cooking the rice.
How many bell peppers do I need?
You will need 2 green bell peppers, chopped.
Can I use different types of onions?
The recipe suggests 2 medium onions, which are typically yellow or white onions.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The primary seasonings are 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce.
Is there any water added to the recipe?
Yes, you need to add 1 cup of water to ensure the rice has enough liquid to cook properly.
What size of tomato sauce can should I use?
The recipe requires one 8-ounce can of tomato sauce.
Can I cook this recipe on High?
While the recipe suggests Low for 6-8 hours, you could potentially cook it on High for 3-4 hours, though rice texture may vary.
Is this Spanish Beef and Rice dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from the chili powder but is generally savory and family-friendly.
Do I need to cook the rice before putting it in the crock pot?
No, the rice should be added uncooked as it will absorb the liquid and cook during the slow cooking process.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken are great lean alternatives for this recipe.
What should I do if the rice is still hard after 6 hours?
Continue cooking on Low until the rice reaches your desired tenderness, as crock pot temperatures can vary.
Can I use brown rice instead?
Brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so white long-grain rice is recommended for these specific proportions.
Is this a good meal for busy weeknights?
Yes, because it is a one-dish meal that slow cooks throughout the day, it is perfect for busy schedules.
Can I add extra vegetables to the mix?
Absolutely, ingredients like corn or black beans would complement the Spanish flavors well.
How many cans of tomatoes are needed?
You will need two 14.5-ounce cans of tomatoes.
What is the purpose of Worcestershire sauce in this dish?
It adds a savory depth and enhances the overall flavor of the ground beef.
Should I stir the mixture during the 6-8 hours?
It is best to leave the lid closed to maintain heat, only stirring once at the beginning to submerge the rice.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Savory Spanish Beef and Rice?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the rice has become too dry.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but ensure your Worcestershire sauce brand is certified gluten-free.
Can I substitute the water for beef broth?
Yes, substituting water with beef or vegetable broth will add even more flavor to the rice.
What should I serve as a side for this meal?
A simple side salad, cornbread, or warm flour tortillas pair very well with this dish.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes, topping the finished dish with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese is a delicious addition.
Does the rice get mushy in the crock pot?
If cooked for the recommended time on Low, the rice should stay tender and separate without becoming overly mushy.