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
Scale
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.
