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 making this casserole on a chilly Sunday & the whole kitchen filled with the aroma of Tex-Mex spices. It became an instant favorite for our family movie nights.
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): To taste
- Sour cream (optional): For serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set 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 ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Season:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add liquids and rice:
- Mix in uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth until combined.
- Combine beans and cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) cheddar cheese.
- Transfer mixture:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheese over top, and bake uncovered for 10 minutes until cheese melts and rice is tender.
- Rest and garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Save This casserole always brings everyone to the table at once, eager to dig in and share a cozy weeknight dinner.
Substitution Ideas
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or try a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor. You can add corn kernels or fresh green onions if you like more texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with tortilla chips or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Top with more jalapeños for heat or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
Tools Needed
A large skillet, 9x13-inch casserole dish, mixing spoon, aluminum foil, and a chefs knife with cutting board are all you need to prepare and bake this dish.
Save This Tex-Mex casserole is the kind of meal that delivers maximum comfort with minimal fuss. Enjoy every flavorful bite with your favorite toppings!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version while keeping similar flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
It can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce ingredients.
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks properly in the casserole?
Mix uncooked rice thoroughly with liquids before baking and cover tightly to allow the rice to absorb moisture and cook evenly.
- → What cheeses work best for this casserole?
Cheddar provides sharpness, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend offer great creamy melt and flavor variations.
- → Can I add vegetables for extra texture?
Yes, corn kernels or chopped green onions can be added to enhance texture and color in the casserole.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors in this dish?
Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream add brightness, heat, and creaminess as finishing touches.