Save 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
When I first made this casserole it quickly became a staple for busy weeknights The blend of simple pantry staples with classic Tex-Mex flavors makes cleanup easy and guarantees everyone goes back for seconds
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: For garnish (optional)
- Sour cream: For garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and 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
- Season:
- Stir in chili powder cumin paprika oregano salt and pepper Cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Add rice and liquids:
- Add uncooked rice diced tomatoes with juice tomato sauce and beef broth Mix well
- Add beans and cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese
- Transfer to dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish and spread evenly
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes
- Finish baking:
- Remove foil sprinkle 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 and garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving Garnish with cilantro jalapeños and sour cream as desired
Save Pin We love gathering around the dinner table for this casserole My kids especially like adding their own toppings like jalapeños and sour cream to make each plate unique
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with tortilla chips or a crisp green salad for a complete meal The leftovers make great lunches for the next day too
Tips for Success
For even cooking cover the casserole tightly before baking and let it rest after removing from the oven
Ingredient Variations
Add corn kernels or chopped green onions for more texture or swap in Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor
Save Pin Serve hot straight from the oven for a truly satisfying Tex-Mex dinner Everyone will want seconds
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives while maintaining rich flavor.
- → Is it possible to use different cheeses in this dish?
Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blends provide excellent flavor variations alongside cheddar.
- → What spices contribute to the Tex-Mex flavor profile?
Chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano create the signature Tex-Mex aroma and taste.
- → How can I ensure this dish is gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce to keep it free from gluten contaminants.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
Tortilla chips or a crisp green salad complement the bold, savory flavors perfectly.
- → Can this casserole be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, it can be assembled in advance and refrigerated before baking to save time on serving day.