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 I needed something filling and comforting using pantry staples Its now a regular request whenever the family gets together for casual dinners
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 for garnish optional
- Sliced jalapeños: Optional garnish
- Sour cream: Optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- 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
- Combine rice and liquids:
- 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
- Transfer to 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 & 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 & garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving Garnish with cilantro jalapeños and sour cream if desired
Save My kids love piling their casserole high with extra sour cream and handing out tortilla chips for scooping on taco night Its a guaranteed family hit
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot from the oven with extra chopped cilantro and a side salad or fresh tortilla chips for crunch and color
Ingredient Swaps
Try adding corn kernels or green onions for more texture or swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a new twist
Leftover Storage
Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake covered in a low oven until warmed through
Save This Tex-Mex casserole makes dinnertime easy comforting and festive Enjoy every cheesy cozy bite
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives while maintaining the casserole's texture and flavor.
- → Is it necessary to precook the rice before baking?
No, the uncooked long-grain white rice cooks during baking absorbed in the tomato sauce and broth, resulting in tender grains.
- → What cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting quality and flavor, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend can also be used for variety.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños or extra chili powder to increase heat or use a spicier diced tomato with green chilies.
- → Can this dish be prepared gluten-free?
Yes, ensure all ingredients like broth and tomato sauce are certified gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.