Texas Hash: A Hearty Weeknight Casserole from Ree Drummond
What Makes Texas Hash a Family Favorite
Texas Hash is a simple, satisfying beef and rice casserole perfect for busy weeknights. Created by Ree Drummond and published on October 5, 2026, this one-pan meal combines ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese into a comforting dish that feeds a family with minimal effort. The recipe emphasizes ease and flavor, making it ideal for those seeking a hearty dinner without extensive prep or cleanup.
Latest news
Costco's Frozen Dumpling Lineup, Ranked From Least To Most Tasty
Best stainless-steel frying pans 2026: expert-tested picks for searing, eggs and daily cooking
Trader Joe’s First‑Time Shopper Guide: Must‑Try Items
Panda Express vs P.F. Chang's: Which Orange Chicken Is Healthier?The dish begins with browning ground beef, then mixing in uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and seasonings. After simmering until the rice is tender, shredded cheddar cheese is stirred in for a creamy, melty finish. Drummond highlights the recipe’s adaptability, noting that cooks can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap in ground turkey for a lighter version. Its popularity stems from its pantry-friendly ingredients and the way it delivers big flavor with little fuss.
How Can You Customize This Casserole
The appeal of Texas Hash lies in its balance of simplicity and substance. Unlike more complicated casseroles that require pre-cooking rice or multiple steps, this version uses raw rice that absorbs liquid directly from the sauce, reducing both time and dishes. Drummond points out that the dish reheats well, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving. She also suggests serving it with a simple green salad or crusty bread to round out the meal. The recipe’s flexibility allows home cooks to tailor it to their tastes while maintaining its core appeal as a dependable, filling option.
Home cooks often wonder how to personalize Texas Hash without losing its essence. Drummond encourages experimentation, suggesting additions like black beans for extra protein or jalapeños for a spicy kick. She notes that using different cheeses—such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack—can alter the flavor profile while keeping the dish creamy. For those avoiding gluten, the recipe naturally fits the bill as long as the broth and tomato sauce are checked for hidden wheat. These tweaks allow the casserole to stay fresh week after week while remaining rooted in its original concept of easy, satisfying comfort food.
Can I make Texas Hash ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole up to the point before baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white? Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time; Drummond recommends increasing the broth by half a cup and simmering covered for 40–50 minutes until tender.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
Content written by The Pioneer Woman » Pancake for fancy-meals.com editorial team, AI-assisted.