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Freezer-Friendly Ground Beef Rice Bake

This simple, warm dish mixes beef, beans, rice, and spices into a one-pan meal that you can freeze and enjoy later.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce extra fat.
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed Draining and rinsing reduces sodium.
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp chili powder Add more for extra spiciness.
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked rice Cooking time varies depending on rice type.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Use for extra creaminess.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Mix in the cooked rice until well combined.
  5. Optionally, sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt.
  6. Allow to cool before portioning into freezer-friendly containers.
Reheating
  1. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave.

Notes

Let the food cool completely before packing. Freeze in meal-sized portions for quick lunches. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.