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 first made this Tex-Mex Beef & Rice Casserole for a weeknight dinner when everyone wanted something comforting yet easy. The savory aroma that fills the kitchen always brings people to the table in record time!
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)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g), shredded, 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
- Prepare oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 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.
- Add seasonings:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine rice and liquids:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Fold in beans and cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to casserole dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Add cheese and bake uncovered:
- Remove foil, sprinkle the 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 serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Save This casserole quickly became a family favorite and is requested for both cozy nights in and casual potlucks. Even picky eaters come back for seconds!
Recipe Variations
Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version or use Monterey Jack cheese for extra creaminess. Try adding corn kernels or chopped green onions for more texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with tortilla chips, a crisp green salad, or top with extra cilantro and jalapeños for more zing.
Nutrition Information
Each serving provides around 420 calories, 17 g total fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein. Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Save Serve warm and watch it disappear fast. Leftovers are delicious heated up the next day!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter variation without compromising flavor.
- → What cheese types complement this dish best?
Cheddar is traditional, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend adds a creamy, flavorful twist.
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks evenly in this bake?
Use uncooked long-grain rice mixed thoroughly with liquids before baking and cover tightly with foil for steam cooking.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce, this dish remains gluten-free.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
Serve alongside tortilla chips, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- → Is it possible to add extra vegetables?
Certainly! Corn kernels, chopped green onions, or diced jalapeños add texture and flavor.