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 dish brings the bold flavors and warmth of Tex-Mex cuisine right to your family table.
I first made this Tex-Mex casserole on a chilly weeknight, looking for something quick but hearty that everyone could enjoy. It&s since become a staple, especially when we crave those cozy, flavorful meals that bring the family together.
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 for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños: optional for garnish
- Sour cream: optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Brown Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. 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 & Liquids:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Fold in Beans & Cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer & Bake:
- Transfer mixture to prepared dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Finish Baking:
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese has melted and rice is tender.
- Rest & Garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Save On weekends this casserole usually brings the whole family to the table before I even call them. It&s a crowd-pleaser that gets requested for movie nights and potlucks alike.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with tortilla chips for extra crunch or pair it with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. A squeeze of lime or extra cilantro adds freshness.
Substitutions & Variations
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten up the dish. Try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor, and add corn or green onions for texture.
Nutrition Info
Each serving provides about 420 calories, 17 g fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein, making it balanced and satisfying for most dietary needs.
Save Try this casserole for your next family dinner and watch it disappear fast. The bold Tex-Mex flavors are bound to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- → How do I keep the casserole gluten-free?
Ensure the beef broth and tomato sauce are certified gluten-free by checking product labels before use.
- → Can I prepare the casserole ahead?
This dish can be assembled in advance and refrigerated. Bake when ready to serve, adding extra minutes if chilled.
- → What cheeses work best?
Cheddar adds bold flavor, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can be used for more variety and creaminess.
- → How do I add more texture?
Mix in corn kernels or chopped green onions along with beans for extra crunch and color.
- → What side dishes pair well?
This casserole goes well with tortilla chips, crisp green salad, or simply garnished with fresh cilantro.