Save A hearty comforting casserole packed with seasoned ground beef tender rice beans and melty cheese all baked in a zesty Tex-Mex tomato sauce.
I first made this casserole on a busy weeknight when we craved something hearty but didn&t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It&s been on repeat ever since thanks to its bold flavors and comforting texture.
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 for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños (optional): For garnish
- Sour cream (optional): For serving
Instructions
- Prep the oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Brown the 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.
- Spice it up:
- Stir in chili powder cumin paprika oregano salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix in liquids and rice:
- 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.
- Assemble casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- 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 serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro jalapeños and sour cream as desired.
Save This casserole is always a hit at family gatherings and potlucks. Watching everyone go back for seconds is truly the best compliment for a home cook.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or tortilla chips for extra crunch. A squeeze of lime adds a bright finish to each serving.
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Toss in corn kernels or extra veggies for added color and nutrients.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Save This Tex-Mex casserole is pure comfort food and perfect for feeding a crowd. Enjoy the hearty flavors any night of the week
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative without compromising flavor.
- → What type of cheese works best in this dish?
Cheddar cheese is recommended for its melty texture, but Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blends also add great flavor.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It is gluten-free when using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce. Always check labels to ensure safety.
- → Can I add extra vegetables for texture?
Absolutely, corn kernels, green onions, or diced jalapeños can enhance the dish’s texture and taste.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
This bake goes well with tortilla chips or a crisp green salad to balance the savory flavors.
- → How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The cheese on top should be melted and bubbly, and the rice tender after baking uncovered for 10 minutes.