Pin 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 together classic Tex-Mex flavors for a satisfying weeknight main everyone will love.
Growing up casseroles like this Tex-Mex beef & rice combination always brought everyone to the table without complaint. Its cheesy savory warmth hits the spot especially on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) browned for flavor
- 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 sliced jalapeños sour cream: Optional garnishes
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- 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 ground beef until browned removing excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add diced 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 Grains & Liquids:
- Mix in uncooked rice diced tomatoes with juice tomato sauce and beef broth.
- Combine Cheese & Beans:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of cheddar cheese.
- Bake Covered:
- Transfer to casserole dish cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered:
- Remove foil sprinkle 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar on top and bake 10 minutes until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
- Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish as desired.
Pin 
Every time I make this for my family it disappears in moments even the picky eaters cheer when cheesy Tex-Mex is on the menu.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with crisp green salad or tortilla chips and extra sour cream for a full Tex-Mex feast.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains dairy from cheese and optional sour cream; gluten-free when you select certified ingredients. Per serving: 420 calories 17 g fat 41 g carbs 26 g protein.
Try These Variations
Use Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blend for bolder flavor or add corn and green onions for extra color and crunch.
Pin This Tex-Mex casserole makes weeknight dinners a breeze and leftovers taste just as delicious the next day.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter variation without sacrificing flavor.
- → What cheese types can I use instead of cheddar?
Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend are great alternatives that melt nicely and add a creamy texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
It can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce; always check ingredient labels to be sure.
- → How can I add more texture to the casserole?
Adding corn kernels or chopped green onions introduces extra crunch and color to the dish.
- → What are good side options to serve alongside?
Tortilla chips or a crisp green salad pair nicely to complement the rich and cheesy casserole.