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 remember the first time I made this casserole for a family gathering. Everyone loved how the savory beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese came together, making it a regular request ever since.
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 (optional): Chopped
- Sliced jalapeños (optional): As desired
- Sour cream (optional): As desired
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Brown Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Veg:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Season:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix Rice & Liquids:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Add Cheese & Beans:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer & Bake:
- Spread mixture in casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish Cheese:
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar on top. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
- Rest & Garnish:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream.
Save Sharing this casserole is a family favorite. We love scooping big spoonfuls onto plates and adding plenty of fresh toppings together round the dinner table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips or a crisp green salad for a complete Tex-Mex meal. A little extra sour cream and jalapeños make each bite special.
Variations
Try adding corn kernels or chopped green onions for more texture. Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend if you want even more flavor.
Nutrition & Allergens
This casserole contains dairy (cheese, optional sour cream) and is gluten-free if using certified broth and tomato sauce. Each serving packs 420 calories, 17 g fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein.
Save Dive into this Tex-Mex comfort classic and enjoy bold flavors with every bite. Your whole family will ask for seconds!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives, offering a similar texture and flavor profile when seasoned properly.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely, ensure to use certified gluten-free beef broth and tomato sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → What cheeses can be used besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend are excellent options that melt smoothly and complement the spices.
- → How can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Consider adding corn kernels or chopped green onions for additional texture and flavor variation.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this Tex-Mex dish?
Serve with crispy tortilla chips or a fresh green salad to balance the richness and enhance the meal.