If you’ve been craving a comforting, down-home meal that feels like a warm hug, you’re going to want to try this Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe. I absolutely love this because it’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and brings out that classic Texas charm in every bite. Whether you’re new to Texan cooking or just need a fuss-free dinner idea, this hash bake has got your back.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: Uses basic, easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
- Comforting Flavors: A perfect harmony of savory ground beef, tender rice, and a hint of Texan spice.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks together in one skillet or baking dish.
- Family-Friendly: My family goes crazy for this — it’s a winner for all ages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll notice this Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe calls for simple ingredients that blend perfectly. When I shop for this dish, I look for ripe canned tomatoes and a good quality ground beef to really elevate the flavor.
- Ground beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture; leaner options can dry out the bake.
- Onion: Diced finely helps it cook evenly and melt into the dish without overpowering it.
- Green pepper: Adds a subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch if you don’t overcook it.
- Canned tomatoes with juice: This gives the dish its saucy base and richness—fresh tomatoes won’t quite work the same here.
- Uncooked long-grain rice: Absorbs all those wonderful flavors while baking — don’t substitute instant rice.
- Chili powder: Essential Texan touch that perks up the savory notes without being too spicy.
- Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami, making the dish taste layered and hearty.
- Minced garlic: Fresh is best; it wakes up all the other flavors.
- Salt & pepper: To taste — I always start with a little less and adjust after baking because flavors concentrate.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts over the top for that gooey, irresistible finish my family loves.
Variations
One of the things I adore about this Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. I often tweak it depending on what I have on hand or the season—feel free to make it your own!
- Ground turkey or chicken: If you want a lighter option, I’ve swapped in ground turkey and it still turns out delicious (just watch the moisture levels).
- Added veggies: Try a handful of corn, black beans, or even diced jalapeños to give it more texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: For friends who love heat, sprinkle in cayenne pepper or use a spicy cheddar cheese.
- Cheese alternatives: Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack shine just as well and melt beautifully.
How to Make Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Veggies
Start by heating a large 12” cast iron skillet (or any oven-safe skillet you’ve got) over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef, diced onion, and green pepper all at once. I like to stir and break up the beef as it cooks so it browns evenly. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the veggies start to soften, usually about 7-9 minutes. Don’t rush this step—it builds the flavor foundation. Drain any excess fat to keep the bake from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Rice, and Seasonings
Next up, stir in your canned tomatoes with their juice, uncooked rice, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so the rice is evenly coated and submerged in the tomato juices. This is when you’ll see the dish really come together—you’re basically creating that perfect blend of savory, slightly spicy, and rich flavors.
Step 3: Bake Covered Until Rice Is Tender
Cover your skillet with a lid that fits or tightly seal it with aluminum foil. This traps the steam, allowing the rice to absorb all those luscious flavors as it cooks. Slide the pan into a preheated 375ºF oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. I usually start checking around 35 minutes—when the rice is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, you’re good to go. If you see the liquid drying out too soon, add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Step 4: Fluff and Add Cheese (If You Like)
Once out of the oven, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This stops it from clumping and makes it light and fluffy. If you’re a cheese fan like me, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top while it’s still hot—let it melt into a beautiful golden blanket of goodness.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe right out of the skillet to keep that homey vibe. I usually scoop it onto plates garnished with something fresh—more on that below!
Pro Tips for Making Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe
- Choose the Right Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives the bake rich flavor without too much grease, making the texture just right.
- Don’t Skip the Cover: Covering during baking traps steam and ensures the rice cooks perfectly—if you bake uncovered, the rice might dry out.
- Adjust the Spice to Taste: I recommend starting with one teaspoon chili powder but feel free to add more if you love bold Texas heat.
- Let it Rest Briefly: After baking, letting the dish sit for 5 minutes improves texture as flavors settle and meld.
How to Serve Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping mine with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions—that pop of green makes the dish fresh and vibrant. A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast, especially if you’ve gone heavier on the chili powder. Sometimes, for a touch of brightness, I squeeze a little fresh lime juice on top.
Side Dishes
This Easy Texas Hash Bake pairs beautifully with classic sides like buttery cornbread, simple steamed green beans, or even a crisp salad. One time, I served it alongside smoky grilled corn on the cob for a full Texas-style feast my friends couldn’t get enough of.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re cooking for a crowd or a special occasion, try serving the hash bake in individual ramekins topped with cheese and broiled until golden and bubbly. It feels fancy but takes no extra effort—you’ll impress everyone without breaking a sweat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, I transfer leftover Texas Hash Bake into an airtight container and pop it into the fridge. It keeps really well for up to 3-4 days without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
I’ve frozen this dish a few times with good results. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, and when you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freezing sometimes softens the rice a bit, so it’s best to eat it within 2 months.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, I gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or pop it in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist. Adding a little extra cheese on top helps bring that fresh-baked feel back.
FAQs
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Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Brown rice has a longer cooking time, so if you want to swap it in, you’ll need to increase the baking time and maybe add more liquid to ensure it cooks fully. I usually stick with long-grain white rice for consistent texture and timing.
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Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. You might want to boost the seasoning a bit and add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty.
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What type of skillet works best for this hash bake?
A cast iron skillet is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and can go from stove to oven without issue. However, any oven-safe skillet or baking dish with a tight lid or foil cover will work just fine.
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Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can brown the beef and veggies a day ahead, then assemble and bake when you’re ready. Just cover well and refrigerate in the meantime.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want something hearty, fuss-free, and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the simple joys of home cooking. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again—just like my family. So grab your skillet, some ground beef, and give this Texas classic a whirl. You’re going to love how easy and delicious it is.
Print
Easy Texas Hash Bake with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Texan, American
Description
Texas Hash is a hearty, one-pan dish combining ground beef, rice, vegetables, and seasonings baked to perfection. This comforting casserole-style meal blends savory flavors with a touch of cheese for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green pepper, diced (about ¾ cup)
- 2 cups canned tomatoes with juice (16 ounces)
- ½ cup uncooked long grain rice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Vegetables: In a large 12-inch cast iron skillet or another suitable skillet, heat over medium heat. Add ground beef, diced onion, and green pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is no longer pink and vegetables begin to soften. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in canned tomatoes with their juice, uncooked rice, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Cover the Skillet: Use an oven-safe lid or cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil to seal in moisture for baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Place the covered skillet in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
- Fluff and Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from the oven. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top while the dish is hot, allowing it to melt.
- Serve and Store: Serve warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet you use is oven-safe if you plan to cover and bake the dish in the oven.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt and chili powder for desired heat level.
- The cheese topping is optional but adds a creamy, rich flavor.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Using a cast iron skillet enhances browning and flavor development.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
