Texas Hash is a dish made for busy cooks who want a comforting meal without too much fuss. I created this recipe to mix the savory richness of ground beef with the simple delight of vegetables and rice. This one-skillet comfort food is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal with family. The blend of tomato and spice creates a robust flavor without being overwhelming.
Why You’ll Love Texas Hash
Texas Hash delivers on taste and convenience. Here are some reasons to try it:
- Simple and Satisfying: The dish combines ground beef, vegetables, and rice for a complete, hearty meal in one pan.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required, which is ideal for busy evenings.
- Family Favorite: Its approachable flavors work well for both kids and adults.
- Versatile Recipe: You can easily adjust spice levels or add different vegetables to suit your taste.
- Comfort Food: It offers a familiar warmth and satisfaction that many home cooks crave.
Ingredients
To create a Texas Hash that bursts with flavor, gather these fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients:
- Lean Ground Beef: Choose 90% lean or higher for a lower fat option.
- Vegetables: Use one medium onion, one green bell pepper, and two celery stalks. These add texture and a subtle sweetness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced, add an aromatic punch.
- Diced Tomatoes: Use a 14.5-ounce can, including the juices, for the perfect tomato base.
- Long-Grain White Rice: Use uncooked rice. It soaks up juices for a hearty consistency.
- Seasonings: Chili powder, salt, and black pepper bring the dish to life.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A few dashes provide a deeper, umami flavor.
- Liquid: Choose water or low-sodium beef broth for cooking the rice.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese is optional. It creates a gooey, rich topping.
- Olive Oil: A tablespoon is enough for sautéing the vegetables.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare the vegetables. Washing and chopping the onion, bell pepper, and celery ensures they cook evenly. If you plan to bake the dish later, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cooking the Base
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Sauté the Vegetables and Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add lean ground beef. Break it up with a spoon. Let it cook until it browns, roughly 3-4 minutes. Then add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. -
Add the Garlic and Spices:
Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for about one minute until it becomes fragrant. Sprinkle in chili powder, salt, and black pepper. The spices blend with the beef and vegetables, creating a rich flavor base.
Combining the Ingredients
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Mix in the Tomatoes and Rice:
Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes, including the liquid. Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice. The tomato juices begin to create a flavorful sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of taste. -
Add the Liquid:
Pour in water or beef broth. Use the right amount so that the rice cooks evenly. Stir all ingredients so that no bits stick to the pan. -
Simmer the Hash:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the dish to simmer for 20-25 minutes. Check the rice halfway to ensure it is softening well and absorbing the flavors.
Optional Baking and Topping
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Baking Step (Optional):
If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavors through gentle baking. -
Adding the Cheesy Finish:
For those who love a cheesy finish, remove the foil during the final 5 minutes of baking. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven until the cheese melts and begins to bubble slightly. -
Final Steps:
Once done, turn off the heat. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes. Fluff the rice gently using a fork. Texas Hash is ready to serve warm straight from the skillet or baking dish.
Tips for the Best Texas Hash
When making Texas Hash, consider these helpful tips to guarantee a perfect meal every time:
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Choose Lean Meat:
Using 90% lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease. It maintains flavor without excess fat. -
Vegetable Variations:
While onions, bell peppers, and celery are classic, you can try adding corn, diced zucchini, or even mushrooms. These alternatives add variety while keeping the texture interesting. -
Rice Matters:
Stick to long-grain white rice to maintain the dish’s proper texture. Other rice types may change the dish by absorbing liquid at different rates. -
Spice Adjustments:
If you enjoy a little heat, try increasing the chili powder by a small amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Always start with less; you can add more once you taste the dish. -
Customize the Toppings:
Although shredded cheddar cheese is traditional, consider topping your Texas Hash with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. -
Maintain the Liquid Ratio:
Ensure you add enough water or broth to allow the rice to cook properly. If the mixture gets too dry, add an extra splash of liquid. -
Timing is Key:
Follow the simmering times carefully to achieve the best rice consistency. Overcooking may make the rice mushy, while undercooking can leave it too firm.
Variations and Customizations
Texas Hash is flexible. You can alter the recipe without compromising its core character:
Protein Alternatives
- Ground Turkey or Chicken:
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adjust the cooking time to remind yourself that poultry may cook faster than beef.
Vegetarian Options
- Beans and Lentils:
For a meatless twist, use black beans or lentils. They offer protein and a rich texture. Simply sauté them with the vegetables and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Flavor Enhancers
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Additional Spices:
Experiment with cumin, smoked paprika, or dried oregano for a different flavor profile. These spices blend well with the tomato base and give the dish a subtle, layered taste. -
Herbs for Freshness:
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. They add a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
Cooking Techniques
- Stovetop vs. Oven-Bake:
The stovetop method is quick and easy. The oven-bake option adds a unique texture and depth of flavor. Choose based on your available time and preferred texture.
Storing and Reheating Texas Hash
Texas Hash can be made ahead or enjoy leftovers the next day. Here are some guidelines to keep your dish tasting fresh:
Storing Leftovers
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Refrigeration:
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. -
Freezing:
Transfer cooled Texas Hash to freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating Instructions
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Microwave:
Microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes. Pause halfway to stir and ensure even heating. -
Skillet:
To reheat on the stovetop, place the leftover hash back into a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water. Cover with a lid and stir occasionally until heated through.
Texas Hash is a dependable, hearty dish that fits well into any busy schedule. The combination of lean ground beef, tender vegetables, and fluffy rice makes it a nourishing meal that stands alone or can serve as a base for exciting twists. Whether you prefer to cook it entirely on the stovetop or finish it in the oven with a melted cheesy topping, this recipe offers flexibility and depth.
I invite you to experiment with the ingredients and techniques while keeping the spirit of Texas Hash intact. Its versatility lends itself to different dietary needs, from protein swaps to vegetarian adaptations. With a few tweaks, you can make the dish uniquely yours.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience. It saves time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor. As you prepare Texas Hash, you’ll enjoy the process of creating something both simple and sophisticated. Every bite connects you to the tradition of hearty home cooking, bringing back memories of family dinners and gathered friends.
Embrace the ease and adaptability of Texas Hash. Experiment with various vegetables, cheeses, and spices, and you might even discover a new favorite twist on a classic dish. Enjoy the process of creating a vibrant, warming dinner that leaves your kitchen smelling inviting and your family asking for seconds.
Happy cooking, and may every meal bring comfort and joy to your table.
Texas Hash
This tasty Texas hash is a one-skillet meal. The family will love it! It is made with ground beef, veggies, tomatoes, rice, and cheddar cheese. It’s a true fiesta!
Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- If you are baking, preheat your oven. Set the temperature to 375°F.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another minute. Then, stir in the chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet. Next, add the uncooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, and water or beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow the rice to become tender and absorb most of the liquid.
- If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- If using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top of the hash. Do this during the last 5 minutes of cooking or baking. Allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
- Once done, fluff the rice with a fork. Serve it hot. Enjoy it with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad if desired.
