Some suppers earn their place by being fancy, and some earn it by saving the day. This slow cooker 5-ingredient Texas hash is one of those dependable meals I come back to when the cupboard looks a little bare and I simply need something hearty on the table by evening. It has the plainspoken goodness of old-fashioned Midwestern home cooking, with beef, rice, tomatoes, and peppers simmering together into a warm, filling dish that tastes like it took more fuss than it really did.
This is a fine supper all on its own, but I like to serve it with buttered green beans, a simple lettuce salad, or a pan of warm cornbread if the weather is cool. A spoonful of shredded cheddar, a little sour cream, or a few sliced green onions on top makes it feel extra homey, and iced tea or a glass of cold milk fits right in beside it.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Texas Hash
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
Directions
1. Crumble the ground beef into the slow cooker, then scatter the chopped bell pepper and chopped onion over the top.
2. Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the beef and vegetables, then sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly across the top.
3. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, until the beef is fully cooked, the vegetables are tender, and the rice has absorbed the tomato juices.
4. Stir well before serving, breaking up the beef if needed so everything is evenly combined. Spoon onto plates and serve hot.
Variations & Tips
Add a little seasoning: Even a 5-ingredient supper can welcome a pinch of salt, black pepper, chili powder, or garlic powder if you keep such things on hand. Those pantry staples deepen the flavor nicely without changing the easy spirit of the dish.
Use pre-cooked rice if needed: If you are worried about rice texture in your slow cooker, stir in 2 to 3 cups of cooked rice during the last 20 to 30 minutes instead of using uncooked rice at the start. That keeps the grains tender and distinct.
Try a cheese topping: A handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack scattered over the hot hash just before serving makes this especially cozy. Put the lid back on for a few minutes so the cheese melts right over the top.
Swap the pepper: If green bell pepper is not a favorite in your house, red bell pepper gives a sweeter taste and prettier color. It is a small change, but it makes the dish feel a bit brighter.
