Save to Pinterest 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 dish is a true mainstay for busy weeknights when you crave bold flavor and satisfying comfort food.
The first time I made this casserole, my whole kitchen was filled with the warm aroma of spices and melting cheese. It quickly became a go-to dish for family gatherings, earning rave reviews for its hearty flavor and easy assembly.
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: Optional
- Sliced jalapeños: Optional
- Sour cream: Optional
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Brown Meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Veggies:
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Season:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Base:
- Add rice, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Fold and Layer:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) cheddar cheese. Transfer mixture to casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover tightly with foil; bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese:
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar cheese on top. Bake for 10 minutes uncovered until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream if desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids love scooping extra sour cream on top while we eat together around the table. This is one of those meals that always brings everyone back for seconds especially on chilly evenings.
Recipe Variations
Try swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken to lighten the dish. You can also add sweet corn or green onions for extra flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with crunchy tortilla chips, a crisp green salad, and your favorite Tex-Mex toppings for a festive meal.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains dairy. Suitable for gluten-free diets if all ingredients are certified. Each serving has approximately 420 calories, 17 g fat, 41 g carbs, and 26 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This casserole is perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully. Make it your next weeknight staple for unbeatable taste and comfort.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter protein option without sacrificing flavor.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce, this dish is gluten-free.
- → What type of cheese works best here?
Cheddar cheese adds richness, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend are great alternatives for extra flavor.
- → Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding corn kernels or chopped green onions adds texture and complements the flavors nicely.
- → How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the rice is tender and the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned.