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.
This casserole has become a family favorite on busy weeknights because it's easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 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: chopped, optional garnish
- Sliced jalapeños: optional garnish
- Sour cream: optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Cook 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 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Add spices:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine ingredients:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Fold in beans and cheese:
- Add black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar on top, and bake uncovered for 10 more 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 recipe often sparks fond memories as we gather around the table sharing stories and passing the casserole dish to everyone.
Notes
Adding corn kernels or chopped green onions can enhance the texture and flavor of the casserole.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish, mixing spoon, aluminum foil, chefs knife, and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese and optional sour cream). Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce. Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Save This casserole is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd and tastes even better the next day.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase chili powder, add sliced jalapeños, or use green chilies with your diced tomatoes for extra heat.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Absolutely, assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate; bake when ready, adding extra cheese toppings before the final bake.
- → Can I use different cheeses in this dish?
Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend can add unique flavors and excellent melting qualities.
- → What sides pair well with this bake?
Consider serving with tortilla chips, a crisp green salad, or guacamole to complement the Tex-Mex flavors.