Ingredients
- 1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup water
- 2 yellow onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, or to taste
What Makes This Dish So Tasty
A comforting and flavorful meal that requires very little effort. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. The combination of spices and vegetables gives the rice a delicious, authentic taste without complicated steps.
Pro Kitchen Tips
- Rinse the rice well before adding it to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming sticky.
- Use low heat for the slow cooker to ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
- Stir the rice halfway through cooking if possible to avoid clumping and ensure even texture.
- Use low heat for the slow cooker to ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
- Stir the rice halfway through cooking if possible to avoid clumping and ensure even texture.
Step 1
Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up as it browns, until it’s no longer pink—about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain off the excess fat.
Step 2
Transfer the beef to your slow cooker. Toss in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped green bell peppers, water, onions, rice, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and a splash of hot sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Step 3
Set the slow cooker to high and let it cook until the rice is tender, which should take around 3 hours. When it’s ready, scoop the rice into bowls and sprinkle some shredded Cheddar cheese on top. Enjoy!
Serving Ideas
This rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside beans or top it with avocado and a squeeze of lime for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Leftover Storage Tips
Let the rice cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, but brown rice will take longer to cook, so increase the slow cooking time by at least an hour.
Is it necessary to brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning the beef adds flavor and helps reduce excess fat, but you can skip this step if short on time.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables or beans for protein.
What type of hot sauce works best in this dish?
Any mild to medium hot sauce like Tabasco or Cholula works well; adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it?
Yes, it reheats well and flavors often improve after resting overnight in the fridge.
How much rice should I add to the slow cooker?
Use 1 cup of uncooked white rice as stated in the recipe instructions.
Is shredded Cheddar cheese required or can I use another cheese?
You can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a different flavor.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need about 3 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes to replace the canned ones.
