Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this mouthwatering Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Casserole that promises to be your new family favorite! Imagine a one-dish wonder that combines the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting warmth of a hearty casserole. Packed with seasoned ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, black beans, and corn, then topped with a golden, melted cheese blanket and drizzled with a creamy, smoky chipotle sauce - this recipe is about to become your go-to meal for satisfying hunger and impressing dinner guests.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can black beans
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chipotle sauce
- 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 skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add uncooked rice to the skillet with the beef. Stir and toast the rice for 2-3 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Mix in black beans, corn, and salsa. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring complete coverage.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow rice to cook and flavors to meld.
- While casserole bakes, prepare chipotle crema by mixing sour cream with chipotle sauce until smooth.
- Remove foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to let cheese become golden and bubbly.
- Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from oven to allow it to set.
- Drizzle chipotle crema over the top before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips
- • For extra flavor, consider using brown rice or adding taco seasoning to the ground beef while browning. • Drain the beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole. • Toast the rice before adding liquids to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent mushiness. • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and more authentic texture. • Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the ingredients to set and make serving easier. • Customize your chipotle crema by adjusting the amount of chipotle sauce to match your spice preference. • For a complete meal, serve with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a side of Mexican-style salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
