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. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this filling dish comes together easily and feeds a crowd.
I still remember the first time I brought this casserole to our family potluck. Everyone loved the cheesy top, spicy aroma, and how leftovers tasted even better the next day. It quickly became a requested staple for gatherings and busy nights.
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):
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Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Brown beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3, 4 minutes until softened.
- Spice it up:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine core ingredients:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
- Add beans & cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread the mixture into the prepared dish evenly.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish cheese topping:
- Remove foil, add remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar over top, and bake uncovered 10 more minutes until cheese melts and rice is tender.
- Serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream if desired.
Save On weekends, we love gathering everyone around the table for this filling casserole. Even picky eaters enjoy the cheesy top and Tex-Mex spices, and there's always a race for seconds!
Easy Ingredient Swaps
You can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. Try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a twist, or add corn kernels for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips or a fresh green salad to complete your meal. A dollop of sour cream and sliced jalapeños add brightness and heat.
Allergy & Diet Notes
This casserole is gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free ingredients. Always check food labels if cooking for allergies, especially for guests.
Save This Tex-Mex beef & rice casserole brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table, and it's sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter alternative without compromising flavor.
- → What types of cheese work best for this dish?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blends add creamy texture and flavor.
- → How can I add more texture to the casserole?
Incorporate corn kernels or chopped green onions for added crunch and freshness.
- → Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, as long as certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce are used, it remains gluten-free.
- → What are good garnishes to serve with this bake?
Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream add brightness and a hint of heat.
