Save to Pinterest A hearty comforting casserole packed with seasoned ground beef tender rice beans and melty cheese all baked in a zesty Tex-Mex tomato sauce.
The first time I made this casserole it became an instant favorite in our household. Everyone loved how the flavors melded together and how satisfying it was after a long day.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) drained and rinsed
- Yellow onion: 1 medium diced
- Red bell pepper: 1 medium diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g) uncooked
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14 oz/400 g) undrained
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g) divided
- Chili powder: 2 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (or to taste)
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Fresh cilantro (optional): chopped
- Sliced jalapeños (optional):
- Sour cream (optional):
Instructions
- Prep oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Brown beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add diced onion bell pepper and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 4 minutes until softened.
- Add seasonings:
- Stir in chili powder cumin paprika oregano salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine main ingredients:
- Add uncooked rice diced tomatoes with their juice tomato sauce and beef broth. Mix well.
- Add beans and cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fill casserole dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Add cheese and finish baking:
- Remove foil sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar over the top and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
- Rest and garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro jalapeños and sour cream as desired.
Save to Pinterest This casserole is a comfort dish my family requests often for Sunday dinner and the leftovers are always a hit the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast or a crisp green salad for freshness.
Ingredient Tips
Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken or mix in corn kernels and chopped green onions for extra texture.
Nutritional Highlights
Each serving offers about 420 calories 26 g protein and is naturally gluten-free with the right ingredients.
Save to Pinterest This Tex-Mex casserole will bring warmth and flavor to any table just garnish and enjoy its cheesy goodness.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives while maintaining flavor and texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce ensures the casserole remains gluten-free.
- → What cheeses work best for this dish?
Cheddar cheese is traditional, but Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blends add extra creaminess and flavor.
- → How can I add more vegetable texture?
Adding corn kernels or chopped green onions enhances texture and complements the existing ingredients.
- → What are suggested garnishes for serving?
Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and sour cream provide brightness and a touch of heat.