Description
Flavorful Jailhouse Rice is a hearty Southern classic combining ground beef, pork sausage, and a medley of spices with tender rice simmered in a creamy blend of mushroom and chicken soups. This one-pot dish is packed with savory goodness, enhanced by optional bell peppers and a cheesy topping that melts perfectly for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb pork sausage (mild or spicy)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Grains & Liquids
- 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
Toppings & Garnish
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef and pork sausage over medium heat, breaking up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Drain Excess Grease: Once the meat is thoroughly browned, drain any excess grease from the skillet to reduce fat content and prevent a greasy dish.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add diced onion, optional bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Season & Add Rice: Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano, evenly coating the vegetables and meat. Then add the uncooked long-grain rice, stirring to coat it with the seasonings and meat mixture.
- Simmer the Dish: Pour in the beef broth along with the cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Cook Covered: Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and let the mixture simmer on medium-low heat for 18-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish & Serve: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the rice and cover again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
- Serve Warm: Spoon the flavorful Jailhouse Rice onto plates and enjoy this comforting, savory Southern classic!
Notes
- You can substitute the pork sausage with all ground beef or turkey for a leaner option.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the cream soups are labeled gluten-free or use homemade substitutes.
- Adding bell peppers is optional but adds nice color and flavor.
