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. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing bold flavors and wholesome ingredients to the dinner table.
Tex-Mex casseroles like this always remind me of cozy family dinners in my childhood. The aroma of spices and melty cheese baking in the oven made everyone eager for meal time.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), use turkey or chicken if preferred
- 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
- Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Cook beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3, 4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add spices:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Combine rice and liquids:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
- Finish filling:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to dish:
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
- Rest and serve:
- Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Save This casserole is always a hit with my family, especially when paired with tortilla chips. It's often requested for potlucks and brings everyone together around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or alongside tortilla chips for a complete dinner. Fresh lime wedges add brightness to every plate.
Make Ahead & Storage
Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 4 days; simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition & Allergens
Each serving packs 420 calories, 17 g fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein. Contains dairy; always check labels for gluten-free confirmation if needed.
Save Enjoy this Tex-Mex casserole for any gathering. It's sure to satisfy and will become a staple on your dinner rotation.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives that provide a lighter option while maintaining flavor and texture.
- → Is this dish naturally gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free beef broth and tomato sauce. Always check ingredient labels to be sure.
- → What cooking tools do I need?
A large skillet for browning and sautéing, a 9x13-inch casserole dish for baking, mixing spoon, and aluminum foil to cover during baking are essential.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Corn kernels or chopped green onions can be mixed in for added texture and color.
- → What cheeses work well besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend make excellent substitutes that melt nicely and add different flavor notes.
- → How do I know when the casserole is done?
The rice should be tender and the cheese melted and lightly browned on top after baking. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.