Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Bites
I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of juicy tomatoes and flavorful filling makes each bite truly satisfying. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! I find that the seasoning is key to making the beef pop, and I also enjoy adding a bit of cheese on top for that melty goodness. This dish not only looks beautiful on the plate but also tastes incredible—perfect for family meals or even entertaining guests.
When I first tried stuffing tomatoes, I was amazed at how vivid and flavorful they became with just a few ingredients. Each tomato acted as a little bowl, cradling the beef and rice mixture, which soaked up the natural tomato juices. I also discovered that baking them uncovered allows the tops to get nicely caramelized, which adds a delightful texture.
One tip I always share is to choose perfectly ripe tomatoes that are firm but slightly soft to the touch. This ensures a perfect filling-to-tomato ratio and enhances the dish's overall flavor. Plus, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving makes the dish pop with freshness!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy tomatoes bursting with flavor
- Savory beef and rice filling that satisfies hunger
- Easily customizable with your favorite spices and herbs
Choosing the Right Tomatoes
When selecting tomatoes for this recipe, it’s best to choose large, firm varieties like beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes. These types have thicker walls, making them ideal for stuffing. Look for tomatoes that are bright in color, without any blemishes or soft spots. A perfect tomato will yield slightly when gently pressed and have a full, sweet aroma.
If you can’t find fresh tomatoes, canned whole tomatoes can be used as a substitute, though they will need to be drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in your dish. Just remember, the fresher the tomatoes, the richer the flavors will be in the final product.
Perfecting the Filling
The combination of ground beef and rice creates a satisfying texture; however, the ratio can be adjusted based on preference. For a leaner filling, you could substitute ground turkey or chicken. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils, adding more herbs for flavor.
Don't skimp on seasoning! The herbs and spices play a crucial role in the dish. You can experiment with adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or fresh basil to brighten the flavor. The key is to taste as you go, ensuring the filling is flavorful and well-balanced before stuffing the tomatoes.
Ingredients
For Stuffing
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Tomatoes
- 4 large tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Preparation Steps
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until no longer pink. Mix in the cooked rice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the filling cool slightly.
Prep the Tomatoes
While the filling cools, slice the tops off the tomatoes and gently scoop out the insides, reserving the pulp. Sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each tomato to enhance the flavor.
Stuff the Tomatoes
Fill each tomato with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in gently. If desired, top each tomato with shredded cheese.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Pro Tips
- Serve these stuffed tomatoes with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to three days and reheated easily in the microwave or oven.
Make-Ahead Storage
These stuffed tomatoes can be assembled in advance, which makes them a great option for busy weeknights. Prepare the filling and stuff the tomatoes up to 24 hours ahead of baking. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to cook. Be sure to allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
If you have leftovers or want to prepare a batch for later, these stuffed tomatoes freeze well too. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, just place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving the stuffed tomatoes alongside a refreshing salad or some garlic bread. The acidity of a simple vinaigrette can really complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the filling. You may also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables to add balance and color to your plate.
If you want to elevate the dish a bit, drizzling a balsamic reduction over the cheesy tops just before serving can add a beautiful finish and extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, sprinkled on top right before serving will also enhance the presentation and taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as alternatives.
→ What kind of cheese is best for topping?
I love using mozzarella or cheddar for their meltiness, but feel free to use your favorite!
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a grain-based meat alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of juicy tomatoes and flavorful filling makes each bite truly satisfying. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! I find that the seasoning is key to making the beef pop, and I also enjoy adding a bit of cheese on top for that melty goodness. This dish not only looks beautiful on the plate but also tastes incredible—perfect for family meals or even entertaining guests.
What You'll Need
For Stuffing
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Tomatoes
- 4 large tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish
How-To Steps
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until no longer pink. Mix in the cooked rice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the filling cool slightly.
While the filling cools, slice the tops off the tomatoes and gently scoop out the insides, reserving the pulp. Sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each tomato to enhance the flavor.
Fill each tomato with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in gently. If desired, top each tomato with shredded cheese.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Extra Tips
- Serve these stuffed tomatoes with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to three days and reheated easily in the microwave or oven.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g