Name: Comforting Texas Hash: Easy Weeknight Meal Your Family Will Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; substitute with any cooking oil if desired.); 1 medium Onion (Provides sweetness and aromatic base; shallots or leeks work if you want a twist.); 2 stalks Celery (Adds crunch and flavor depth; you can omit if not on hand.); 1 Green Pepper (Offers color and fresh taste; can use red bell pepper instead.); 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced (Enhances the dish's overall flavor; garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.); 1 lb Extra-Lean Ground Beef (Main protein source; ground turkey or chicken lightens it up.); 1/2 cup Long-Grain Rice, uncooked (Absorbs flavor and acts as filler; brown rice improves health factor.); 2 tsp Kosher Salt (Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Adds subtle heat; freshly ground is best for enhanced flavor.); 1/2 tsp Dry Mustard (Provides a tangy depth; swap with Dijon mustard for variety.); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (Infuses smoky flavor; regular paprika works for less smoke.); 2 tsp Chili Powder (Dominant spice for warmth; adjust based on spice tolerance.); 1 tsp Dry Parsley (Optional herb for garnish; fresh parsley gives vibrant touch.); 1 can (14 oz) Diced Tomatoes (Adds moisture and acidity; fresh tomatoes can substitute.); 1 cup Water (Needed for cooking rice; broth can enrich flavor.); 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce (Deepens flavor; soy sauce may be alternative.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated (Provides creaminess and sharpness; consider Monterey Jack for milder option.)

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The moment the first chill of fall lingers in the air, I find myself craving hearty comfort food that warms the soul. That’s when I turn to my trusty One-Pot Texas Hash—a dish that brings the perfect blend of flavors and memories right to the table. Imagine tender ground beef mingling with vibrant green peppers and fluffy rice, all harmonized by a medley of spices and topped with a layer of melted cheese. This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a nostalgic hug in a bowl.

What I love most about this Texas Hash is how it effortlessly transforms a busy evening into a cozy family gathering. With just 30 minutes of prep time, this dish captures the traditional essence of chili and tomato, making it a go-to comfort meal that everyone loves. Plus, its one-pot nature means fewer dishes to wash—and more time to savor those precious moments with loved ones. So let’s dive into this flavorful adventure and make your next dinner a true delight!

Why is Texas Hash a Family Favorite?

Quick and Easy: This delightful one-pot meal comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with ground beef, vibrant veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s a bowl of comfort everyone will appreciate.
Melty Cheese Goodness: Topping it all off with melted cheddar adds a rich creaminess that brings smiles to the dinner table.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it by adding your family’s favorite vegetables or swap proteins for a lighter twist.
Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: It embodies the warmth of American comfort food, making it the ultimate dish for any family gathering or cozy night in!

Texas Hash Ingredients

For the Base

Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; substitute with any cooking oil if desired.
Medium Onion – Provides sweetness and an aromatic base; shallots or leeks work if you want a twist.
Celery (2 stalks) – Adds crunch and flavor depth; you can omit it if it’s not on hand.
Green Pepper (1) – Offers color and a fresh taste; feel free to use red bell pepper instead.
Garlic (1 Tbsp., minced) – Enhances the dish’s overall flavor; garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.

For the Protein & Rice

Extra-Lean Ground Beef (1 lb.) – Main protein source delivering rich flavor; ground turkey or chicken lightens it up.
Long-Grain Rice (½ cup, uncooked) – Absorbs flavor and acts as a filler; brown rice improves the health factor.
Kosher Salt (2 tsp.) – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Black Pepper (½ tsp.) – Adds subtle heat; freshly ground is always best for enhanced flavor.

For the Seasoning

Dry Mustard (½ tsp.) – Provides a tangy depth; swap with Dijon mustard for something different.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp.) – Infuses a smoky flavor; regular paprika works if you prefer less smoke.
Chili Powder (2 tsp.) – Dominant spice for warmth; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
Dry Parsley (1 tsp.) – An optional herb for garnish; fresh parsley gives a vibrant touch if you have it.

For Adding Moisture & Flavor

Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz.) – Adds moisture and acidity to balance the dish; fresh tomatoes can take their place.
Water (1 cup) – Needed for cooking rice; broth can enrich the flavor significantly.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp.) – Deepens the flavor profile; soy sauce may be a fitting alternative.

For the Finish

Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, grated) – Provides creaminess and sharpness; consider Monterey Jack for a milder option.

How to Make Texas Hash

Heat Oil: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This is the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it.
Sauté Veggies: Next, add diced onion, celery, green pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. You should see them glistening and fragrant.
Brown Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, stirring to brown it evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cook until well browned and delicious, about 5-7 minutes.
Mix Spices and Rice: Stir in dry mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, dry parsley, and rice into the meat mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting those flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Liquid: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), water, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir, then cover the skillet with a lid.
Simmer Away: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the rice to absorb all that luscious flavor.
Check Rice: Once the rice is tender, if there’s excess liquid, let it cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it up.
Melt Cheese: Finally, stir in the grated cheddar cheese, cover, and let it sit until the cheese is all melty and gooey, about 2-3 minutes. Serve it warm and enjoy!

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Texas Hash

Perfect Cooking Lid: Ensure your skillet has a tight-fitting lid. This promotes proper steaming, vital for the rice to cook evenly, making your Texas Hash perfect.
Pre-Cooked Rice Option: In a time crunch? Use pre-cooked rice to speed up the process. Just adjust the liquid to avoid making the dish too soupy.
Flavorful Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients! Ground turkey or chicken can lighten the dish without losing flavor, perfect for a healthier Texas Hash.
Adjusting Spices: Taste as you go and adjust your spices according to your family’s preference. If your crew loves heat, add more chili powder or some jalapeños for a kick!
Garnishing Pointers: Fresh parsley not only brightens your dish visually but also adds a burst of flavor. Don’t skip this simple step for that extra touch!

What to Serve with Texas Hash?

A perfect comforting meal deserves sides that elevate it to the next level. Let’s explore delectable accompaniments that will complete your dinner table.

Crusty Bread: This hearty side is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. No meal is complete without a warm slice that soaks up those flavorful juices!
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich spices of the hash. It’s a great way to get in some freshness and crunch.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy flavors of coleslaw complement the warmth of Texas Hash perfectly. It adds a delightful crunch and helps balance out the dish’s rich flavors.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, buttery cornbread makes an ideal pairing. Their soft texture complements the hearty hash and brings a touch of Southern charm to your table.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of root vegetables, lightly seasoned and roasted, offers a warm, nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the spices in the hash. This pairing provides a beautiful color and additional nutrients, making your meal complete.
Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, a side of pickled jalapeños adds zest and elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish. Their tangy, spicy notes can brighten up your meal in an instant!
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Cool, refreshing beverages like sweet iced tea or tangy lemonade can cleanse the palate and balance the hearty flavors of Texas Hash. Grab a glass to sip alongside your comforting dinner for the perfect meal experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Texas Hash ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop all your vegetables and measure out the spices up to 24 hours in advance to save time on a busy weeknight. Additionally, you can prepare the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, allow the Texas Hash to cool completely before refrigerating, ensuring it retains its flavors and textures. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot, then stir in the grated cheddar cheese. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Texas Hash

Fridge: Store leftover Texas Hash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to retain moisture.

Freezer: Texas Hash can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, use the microwave, stirring midway for even heating.

Airtight Tips: Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent ice crystals when freezing.

Texas Hash Variations

Ready to make this comforting dish uniquely yours? Let your creativity shine through with these delicious variations.

Turkey Twist: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add in additional veggies like corn, black beans, or carrots for a nutrient-packed meal. Mix them in during the sauté step for a colorful medley.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a hint of heat or gouda for a creamy twist. Don’t skimp on the cheese—it elevates the dish!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a kick, toss in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to spice things up. This little addition will create a memorable flavor explosion!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme can brighten your Texas Hash. Stir them in just before serving for a garden-fresh taste.
Quinoa Substitute: Swap out rice for quinoa to elevate the dish with extra protein and a nuttier flavor. It’s a wonderful twist that brings a different texture to your meal.
Curry Flavor: Experiment with flavors by adding a teaspoon of curry powder. This will transform your dish into a comforting fusion that’s still hearty and satisfying.
Breakfast Style: Make it a breakfast hash by using breakfast sausage instead of ground beef and topping with a fried egg. The creamy yolk will bring a delightful richness as you dig in!

Texas Hash Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppers for Texas Hash?
Absolutely! For Texas Hash, select bell peppers that are firm and shiny. Look for vibrant colors without dark spots or wrinkles. If you’re feeling adventurous, red bell peppers offer a sweeter flavor, or you can spice things up with poblano or jalapeño peppers for a kick!

What’s the best way to store leftover Texas Hash?
Leftover Texas Hash should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to reheat, gently heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave to enjoy the flavors once more!

Can I freeze Texas Hash? How long does it keep in the freezer?
Absolutely! Texas Hash freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion as it freezes. To thaw, simply move it to the fridge overnight, and then reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain moisture.

What should I do if my Texas Hash is too watery?
Very good question! If your Texas Hash ends up too soupy, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes over low heat. This allows excess liquid to evaporate and helps thicken it up. Stir occasionally to prevent burning on the bottom. If you’re in a real bind, you can add a bit of cooked rice to absorb some of that liquid.

Is Texas Hash suitable for people with allergies?
It’s essential to be mindful of allergies! Texas Hash can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions. If you’re allergic to gluten, check the Worcestershire sauce for gluten-free options. Additionally, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter dish. Always make sure to check the labels on your ingredients to ensure safety for those with allergies.

Can I make Texas Hash vegetarian?
Very much so! To make a vegetarian version of Texas Hash, simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a combination of black beans and lentils. You can also add more vegetables like corn or zucchini to enhance flavor and texture. Just ensure to increase the cooking time for any raw ingredients to ensure they’re tender and flavorful!

These Texas Hash Recipe FAQs should help answer your burning questions and guide you in preparing this comforting dish to its fullest potential. Enjoy!