Festive Chili Beef with Rice

This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. Packed with spices and tender beef, it pairs beautifully with fluffy rice for a satisfying bite every time.

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TIME45 min

SERVINGS4

RATING4.7 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 cup white rice 1 cup chopped onion 1 cup chopped green bell pepper 1 ¼ cups water 1 (10 ounce) can red chile sauce 1 (8.75 ounce) can sweet corn 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon salt 1 pound sirloin, cut into 1 inch cubes 1 (15 ounce) can Mexican-style tomato sauce 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating a bit of oil in a medium saucepan. Toss in the rice and cook it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it turns a nice golden color—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Next, add half of the chopped onion and green pepper, cooking and stirring for just a minute to soften them up. Pour in the water along with half of the chili sauce, then bring everything to a boil. Stir in the corn, lemon juice, and half a teaspoon of salt. Once it’s boiling, cover the pan and let it simmer gently on low heat for about 20 minutes.

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Step 2

While the rice is cooking, heat a skillet and sauté the beef with the remaining onion and green pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the veggies have softened. Then, add the rest of the chili sauce, tomato sauce, cumin, and another half teaspoon of salt. Let this simmer uncovered for around 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

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Step 3

When the rice is done, spread it out on a serving platter and fluff it up with a fork. Sprinkle some cheese over the rice, then spoon the beef mixture on top. Serve it right away and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Brown the beef well to develop deeper flavor before adding spices.
- Simmer the chili slowly to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Use fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime to brighten the final dish.

Why you’ll love it

This dish is packed with rich flavors and a perfect balance of spices that warm you up on any chilly day. It’s hearty and satisfying, making it great for family meals or festive gatherings. The combination of tender beef and fluffy rice is both comforting and delicious.

Serving ideas

Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can add a creamy touch. Warm tortillas or crusty bread also pair nicely for scooping up the chili.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish also freezes well—portion it out and freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.