If you're craving a quick and flavorful meal, this dish brings a spicy Cajun twist to classic stir-fried noodles. Packed with vibrant veggies and bold seasonings, it’s perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time1 hr 5 min
Total Time1 hr 20 min
Difficulty
Hard
Cooking Pointers
Use high heat to get a nice sear on the noodles and veggies without overcooking.
Prep all your ingredients before starting, as stir-frying moves quickly.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
Ingredients
0/10
Why This Dish Is Amazing
This dish packs a flavorful punch with its bold Cajun spices and quick stir-fry method. It’s a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and satisfying, making it a great weeknight meal that comes together fast.
Step 1
Lightly heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up as you go, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat. Next, toss in the garlic, onion, and green bell pepper. Cook everything together until the onions soften and become translucent, which should take about 7 minutes.
Step 2
Add the tomatoes and let the mixture simmer until most of the liquid has cooked down, around 5 minutes. Stir in the kidney beans, rice, and water, then season with chili powder, salt, and pepper to your taste. Transfer everything to a 9x13-inch baking dish and cover it tightly with foil.
Step 3
Pop the dish into a 375°F oven and bake for 45 minutes to an hour, until the rice has soaked up all the liquid and is tender. Let it sit a few minutes before serving, and enjoy!
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Options To Try
Serve with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors. A squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of chopped green onions can add a fresh touch just before eating.
How To Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and cooks similarly.
Do I need to drain the kidney beans before adding them?
No, keep the beans undrained as the liquid helps cook the rice.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
You can, but use about 1 ½ cups chopped fresh tomatoes and add a bit of water if needed.
What can I substitute for long-grain white rice?
Brown rice or instant rice can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it okay to cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?
Baking helps the rice cook evenly; stovetop cooking may require more liquid and constant stirring.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild to medium heat from the chili powder, which you can adjust to taste.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate before baking, but add extra baking time if cold.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
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