Tex Mex Black Eyed Pea Casserole

Discover the perfect fusion of Southern comfort and Southwestern zest with this Tex Mex Black Eyed Pea Casserole. This hearty main dish layers earthy black-eyed peas, smoky bacon, and tender spinach with long-grain rice and zesty Rotel tomatoes. Finished with a bubbling layer of sharp cheddar cheese, it is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that brings everyone to the table.

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This casserole is more than just a meal; it is a satisfying blend of textures and spices. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika creates a rich, aromatic profile that complements the smokiness of the bacon and the tang of the green chilies.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 (10 oz / 283 g) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Ideal for slow-simmered sauces, braised vegetables, baked dips, and cozy one-pot meals with even heat.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 3

Drain excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Add olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 4

Stir in the rice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the Rotel tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, black-eyed peas, spinach, and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer.

Step 6

Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.

Step 7

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 8

Remove foil, stir gently, and sprinkle 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 9

Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with remaining cheddar cheese, if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

If you prefer using brown rice, you can substitute it for white rice, but be sure to increase the baking time by 15–20 minutes and keep an eye on the liquid levels to ensure the rice cooks through properly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or use hot Rotel tomatoes. To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or swap it for turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Serviervorschläge

Finish the dish by serving it with a dollop of sour cream, fresh avocado slices, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to enhance the Tex-Mex flavors.

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This Tex Mex Black Eyed Pea Casserole is a complete meal that delivers on both nutrition and taste. Whether you are looking for a comforting family dinner or a dish to share at a gathering, this flavorful casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

Mix doughs, batters, and whipped cream easily for baking cakes, cookies, and everyday treats.

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Recipe FAQ

→ Can I make this black-eyed pea casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold.

→ What can I substitute for the Rotel tomatoes?

Diced fire-roasted tomatoes with a 4-ounce can of green chilies work well. Alternatively, use regular diced tomatoes and add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper for heat.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Absolutely. Bake completely, cool, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F until warmed through.

→ How do I make this vegetarian?

Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Sauté the vegetables in olive oil. Consider adding a can of drained black beans for extra protein and texture.

→ Why did my rice turn out undercooked?

Different rice brands absorb liquid differently. If the rice is still crunchy after baking, add 1⁄4 cup hot broth, cover again, and bake 10–15 minutes more. Let it rest covered before serving.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but increase the initial covered baking time to 40–45 minutes and add 1⁄4 cup extra broth since brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time.