If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, comforting textures, and a satisfying heartiness, then you absolutely need to dive into this Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s a delicious medley of seasoned ground beef, hearty black beans, and tender rice, all wrapped up in a cheesy, saucy bake that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. This casserole isn’t just easy to make, it’s also a total crowd-pleaser that packs the bold Tex-Mex taste we all love into every comforting bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each element plays a key role: the savory ground beef forms the flavor base, the black beans bring protein and creaminess, and the combination of spices, salsa, and cheese adds layers of exciting taste and gooey texture.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory protein that anchors the dish.
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning: Packs the perfect blend of spices to give that classic taco flavor.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps dissolve the seasoning and keeps the meat juicy as it cooks.
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds a creamy texture and earthy flavor while boosting fiber and protein.
- 1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained: Brings a zesty kick with subtle heat and vibrant color.
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a rich, tangy base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1 (8-oz) jar salsa/picante sauce (1 cup): Adds extra flavor complexity and a little bit of brightness.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Acts as the comforting, fluffy foundation of the casserole.
- 1 cup sour cream: Provides creaminess and a slight tang to balance out the spices.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Offers gooey, melty richness that crowns the dish beautifully.
How to Make Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350º F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly baked and golden.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the lean ground beef until it’s no longer pink. After draining any excess fat, stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let the beef simmer for about 5 minutes until the water has fully absorbed and the spices are perfectly infused into the meat. This step ensures your beef is tender and packed with rich, bold flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and combine the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato sauce, salsa, cooked rice, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Give everything a good mix until fully incorporated. This mixture is what makes the casserole creamy and flavorful throughout.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the bean and rice mixture into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Then, layer the seasoned taco meat evenly over the rice mixture. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese all over the top to create that irresistible cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. Let it cool just a bit before serving to enjoy every warm, comforting bite.
How to Serve Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your casserole, add fresh garnishes that brighten and complement the rich flavors. Consider chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños for some heat, or a squeeze of lime. These finishing touches add freshness and a vibrant pop of color that make the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands tall on its own, but pairing it with crisp green salads, corn on the cob, or warm tortillas turns it into a full fiesta meal. Consider a simple avocado salad or roasted vegetables to balance the hearty richness of the casserole with some freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole Recipe straight from the pan for a cozy, family-style feel, or portion it onto colorful plates with garnishes artfully arranged. For parties, consider scooping the casserole into mini bowls or even using it as a filling for warm flour tortillas to make tasty taco bowls. The possibilities to get creative are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it an easy go-to meal for busy weeknights, and the flavors actually deepen after sitting for a day.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing and freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover the casserole with foil and warm at 350º F until heated through (about 20 minutes). For the microwave, cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short increments to avoid drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and add extra beans, vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or use a plant-based meat substitute to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What type of rice works best for this casserole?
Long-grain white or brown rice both work well. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole so the texture stays perfect after baking.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes are a great choice, but make sure to drain off any excess liquid to avoid the casserole becoming too watery.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! Add more diced green chiles, jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra kick that suits your heat tolerance.
Can I prepare this casserole a day ahead?
Yes, assembly can be done the day before. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake it fresh when ready to serve for the best cheesy, bubbly texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the warm, cheesy, and flavorful goodness of the Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole Recipe that makes it a keeper in any kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing a dish to a gathering, it’s sure to become a beloved classic. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and bold taco flavors — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Taco Black Bean and Rice Casserole is a flavorful and hearty one-pan meal combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, tomatoes, rice, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfectly spiced with taco seasoning and baked to bubbly perfection, it’s an easy and satisfying dish ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
Casserole Base
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (8-oz) jar salsa/picante sauce (1 cup)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup sour cream
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the water to absorb fully. Remove from heat.
- Mix Casserole Base: In a large bowl, combine the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato sauce, salsa, cooked rice, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly and transfer the mixture evenly to the prepared baking pan.
- Assemble Layers: Spread the cooked taco-seasoned ground beef evenly over the rice and bean mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top for a cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Notes
- For added heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Use cooked rice that is slightly cooled or day-old rice for best texture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables like corn and bell peppers.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.
