Hearty Tex-Mex casserole loaded with beef, beans, rice, and cheese in a flavorful tomato base.
# Components:
→ Proteins
01 - 1 pound lean ground beef
02 - 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 - 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Grains
06 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
→ Sauces & Liquids
07 - 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
08 - 1 cup beef broth
09 - 1/2 cup tomato sauce
→ Dairy
10 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
→ Spices & Seasonings
11 - 2 teaspoons chili powder
12 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
16 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Garnishes
17 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
18 - Sliced jalapeños (optional)
19 - Sour cream (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until fully browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
03 - Add diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables become soft and fragrant.
04 - Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, ensuring spices are evenly distributed and aromatic.
05 - Mix in uncooked white rice, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all elements.
06 - Gently fold in black beans and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, blending thoroughly.
07 - Transfer mixture to the prepared dish, spreading evenly for uniform baking.
08 - Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
09 - Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese across the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
10 - Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish servings with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a spoonful of sour cream if desired.
