Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf

A hearty and flavorful dish inspired by the classic Mediterranean moussaka, this Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf brings together tender ground beef, fragrant spices, and creamy chickpeas, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s the perfect one-pot meal that’s both comforting and packed with robust flavors.

Why You’ll Love Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf

• Rich and Hearty: The combination of ground beef, eggplant, and chickpeas creates a deeply satisfying meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor—perfect for busy nights.
• Full of Mediterranean Flavors: Oregano, garlic, and a splash of red wine bring out bold, traditional flavors.
• Customizable: Swap beef for lamb for an even more authentic twist!
• Great for Meal Prep: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Ingredients

For the Pilaf:

• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Essential for bold Mediterranean flavors.
• 1 onion, diced – Adds depth and sweetness.
• 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or lamb) – The protein base for this dish.
• ½ tsp kosher salt (for beef) – Enhances the natural flavors.
• 1½ tbsp dried oregano – A signature herb in Mediterranean cuisine.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Deepens the umami richness.
• 300g (10 oz) eggplant, cubed (max 1.5 cm pieces) – Adds texture and a mild, earthy flavor.
• ⅓ cup dry red wine (optional) – Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1 cup basmati rice, uncooked – Light and fluffy when cooked.
• 400g (14 oz) canned chickpeas, drained – Boosts protein and fiber.
• 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes – The base of the flavorful sauce.
• 1½ cups low-sodium chicken stock – Provides the perfect amount of moisture for the rice.
• 1¼ tsp kosher salt (for broth) – Balances all the flavors.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.

To Serve:

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For freshness and color.
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling – Enhances the final dish with a touch of richness.
• Greek yogurt (optional, highly recommended!) – A cooling contrast to the warm, spiced flavors.

Instructions

How to Make Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant and softened (about 3 minutes).
2. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef, season with ½ tsp salt, and cook until browned. Stir in oregano and tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to develop flavors.
3. Add Eggplant & Wine: Stir in the cubed eggplant and cook for another 3 minutes. Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer until reduced.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Add basmati rice, chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, 1¼ tsp salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook the Pilaf: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
6. Rest & Fluff: Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and add a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm pita or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing side to balance the hearty flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted zucchini or peppers make a great addition.

Additional Tips

• For a Thicker Sauce: Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Extra Flavor: Swap water for additional chicken stock when cooking the rice.

This Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection!

Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf

This one-pot Moussaka-inspired beef pilaf is a cozy, satisfying meal with rich Greek flavors. Juicy eggplant, tender beef, and fragrant oregano are cooked in a red wine tomato broth, with chickpeas adding texture and heartiness. The basmati rice soaks up all the delicious flavors, making this an easy, comforting dinner!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Plato principal

Cuisine Greek-Inspired

Servings 5 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 onion diced
• 500 g 1 lb ground beef (or lamb)
• ½ tsp kosher salt for beef
• 1½ tbsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 300 g 10 oz eggplant (cubed, max 1.5 cm pieces)
• ⅓ cup dry red wine optional
• 1 cup basmati rice uncooked
• 400 g 14 oz canned chickpeas, drained
• 400 g 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 1½ cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1¼ tsp kosher salt for broth
• ½ tsp black pepper
• To Serve
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional)
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
• Greek yogurt optional, highly recommended!

Instructions

 

• Sauté the aromatics & beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes. Add beef, breaking it up as it browns. Season with ½ tsp salt and oregano, cooking for 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 more minute.
• Add eggplant & deglaze: Toss in eggplant, stirring until coated in the beef mixture. Pour in red wine (if using), simmer, and stir until mostly evaporated.
• Add rice & broth: Stir in basmati rice, ensuring it’s coated. Add chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, 1¼ tsp salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
• Cook covered: Once gentle bubbles form all over the surface, cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 20 minutes (no peeking!).
• Rest & serve: Remove from heat and let sit (covered) for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of parsley, and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.

Notes

• Eggplant tip: Keep cubes small (1.5 cm max) for proper cooking.
• Rice texture: Let it rest after cooking to absorb extra liquid.
• Customize: Swap chickpeas for white beans or omit them.
• Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 4 days.

Keyword Moussaka pilaf, Greek rice pilaf, one-pot beef rice, easy dinner recipe, Mediterranean rice, ground beef rice, eggplant rice