Pin 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 quickly became my go-to comfort food for chilly weeknights. Its vibrant Tex-Mex flavors never fail to satisfy the whole family.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 3:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 4 minutes until softened.
- Step 4:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Step 6:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Step 8:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 9:
- 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.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Pin My family loves gathering around the table to share this casserole, especially on weekends when we want a hearty meal with minimal prep.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish, mixing spoon, aluminum foil, chef's knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, optional sour cream). Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce. Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 420 calories, 17 g total fat, 41 g carbohydrates, 26 g protein
Pin This Tex-Mex Beef & Rice Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe box for flavorful, fuss-free dinners.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives in this casserole, maintaining flavor and texture.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra jalapeños or increase chili powder for a more intense Tex-Mex heat profile.
- → Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely, assemble the mixture and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready, adding extra cheese on top before the final baking step.
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blends are great substitutes that melt beautifully and enhance flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
Serve alongside crisp green salads or crunchy tortilla chips to balance the hearty casserole.
- → Is this gluten-free?
Yes, provided all ingredients like broth and tomato sauce are certified gluten-free.