Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey to the heart of Cajun cuisine? Our Red Beans and Rice Tortilla Casserole is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will have your family coming back for seconds! This easy-to-make casserole combines hearty red beans, fluffy rice, and zesty salsa, all layered between warm tortillas and topped with gooey cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can create a mouthwatering masterpiece!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans red beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 6 tortillas
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed red beans with cooked rice. Add cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Pour half of the salsa into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it to create an even base layer.
- Layer tortillas to cover the salsa, slightly overlapping or cutting them to fit the dish completely.
- Spread the bean and rice mixture evenly over the tortilla layer, ensuring consistent coverage.
- Pour the remaining salsa over the bean mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheese across the top to create a complete coverage.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, removing the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Slice into portions and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or additional salsa.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the bean and rice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your casserole even tastier!
- Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to experiment with different types of salsa, such as mango or corn salsa, to add a unique twist to the dish. A spicier salsa will give it an extra kick!
- Cheese Choices: While shredded cheese is a must, consider mixing different types like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a sprinkle of feta for added flavor.
- Tortilla Tips: If you prefer a crispier texture, lightly toast the tortillas in a pan before layering them in the casserole. This will give them a nice crunch!
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t forget to garnish your casserole before serving! Fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of green onions can elevate the dish and add a fresh touch.
- Leftover Love: This casserole reheats well, so make extra for delicious leftovers! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
