Description
A vibrant and hearty Mexican Fiesta Casserole combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, tomatoes with green chilies, and rice, all topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This easy-to-make baked casserole offers bold southwestern flavors perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup cooked rice
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream for serving
- Sliced jalapeños for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Cook the beef and aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef browns and the onion softens. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add the spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring everything together. Cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant.
- Combine veggies and rice: Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cooked rice. Mix well and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the hearty mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to ensure a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, indicating the casserole is hot and ready.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for easier serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced jalapeños if desired for an extra kick.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content if preferred.
- Cook rice ahead of time or use leftover rice to save preparation time.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less chili powder and jalapeños.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternative.
