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.
Making this casserole for my family always brings smiles to the table. The blend of savory beef and warm spices is a favorite at every gathering.
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: chopped, optional
- Sliced jalapeños: optional
- Sour cream: optional
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 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 Veggies:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add Spices:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix Wet Ingredients & Rice:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Add Beans & 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.
- Bake Uncovered:
- 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 & Garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Save This casserole is always requested during family potlucks. Even picky eaters go back for seconds, and it's perfect for making ahead to save time on busy weekdays.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch or pair with a fresh crisp green salad on the side.
Variations
Add corn kernels or chopped green onions for extra color and texture, or swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese. Spice it up with extra chilies if you like more heat.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains dairy from cheese and optional sour cream. Gluten-free if certified ingredients are used. Each serving has about 420 calories, 17 g fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein.
Save This Tex-Mex casserole is sure to become a family favorite for comfort food nights. Enjoy the bold flavors and easy preparation.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives without compromising flavor.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, ensure your broth and tomato sauce are certified gluten-free ingredients.
- → What cheeses work well besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend provide excellent melting qualities and flavor variety.
- → How can I add more texture to this casserole?
Incorporate corn kernels or chopped green onions to enhance crunch and freshness.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover the casserole and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave in portions for convenience.