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 Tex-Mex Beef & Rice Casserole quickly became a family favorite because of its rich flavors and simple preparation process.
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):
- Sour cream (optional):
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 3:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 4 minutes until softened.
- Step 4:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Step 6:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Step 8:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 9:
- 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.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Save This casserole has created many wonderful family dinners and memories around the table.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13-inch casserole dish, mixing spoon, aluminum foil, chef s knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese optional sour cream) Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies
Nutritional Information
Calories 420 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 41 g Protein 26 g per serving
Save 
This Tex-Mex casserole is the perfect blend of flavor and convenience for any dinner night.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter variation without compromising flavor.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free beef broth and tomato sauce ingredients to ensure the dish remains gluten-free.
- → What cheeses work well for topping?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blends provide excellent alternative flavors.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, adding corn kernels, green onions, or bell peppers can enhance texture and color.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream add freshness and a mild kick.