Pin it A hearty, comforting casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, beans, and melty cheese, all baked in a zesty Tex-Mex tomato sauce.
The first time I baked this Tex-Mex Beef & Rice Casserole, my family was hooked after one bite. It is so simple to put together, yet delivers bold, comforting flavors that remind us of cozy weeknight dinners around the kitchen table.
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
- Garnishes (optional): Fresh cilantro, chopped, sliced jalapeños, sour cream
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat:
- 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 ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Cook Vegetables:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add Seasonings:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Rice & Sauces:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Combine Beans & Cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer and Bake:
- Spread mixture evenly in casserole dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake 30 minutes.
- Top with Cheese & Finish:
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until melted and rice is tender.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Pin it This casserole has become a staple for our big family gatherings. My kids love helping with the cheese, and it's always the first dish to disappear from the table.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish, mixing spoon, aluminum foil, chefs knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. Gluten-free when using gluten-free broth and tomato sauce. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety for food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 420, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 41 g, Protein: 26 g
Pin it Try this casserole for a comforting meal sure to please everyone. Leftovers are just as delicious the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks properly in the bake?
Use uncooked long-grain rice and sufficient liquid such as beef broth and tomato sauce. Covering the dish during the initial baking helps steam the rice evenly.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
- → What spices give the dish its Tex-Mex flavor?
Chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano combine to create the distinct Tex-Mex profile in this dish.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce ensures the dish meets gluten-free standards.
- → What cheeses can be used besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend can be substituted to vary the taste and texture.
- → How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover the casserole with foil during baking to retain moisture, then uncover near the end to melt the cheese and brown the top.