Tex-Mex Beef Rice Casserole

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.

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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

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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.