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Cheesy Taco Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Bake

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This hearty, family-friendly casserole combines taco-seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, veggies, and plenty of gooey cheese for a comforting Tex-Mex dinner. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown, preferably day-old)
  • 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack/Mexican blend)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with oil or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for about 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until mostly browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef and veggies. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir well to coat and let the spices toast for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in salsa and tomato sauce. Add the drained black beans and corn. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in cooked rice until evenly mixed.
  7. Spread half of the beef and rice mixture into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Repeat with the remaining beef mixture and cheese.
  8. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Broil for 2 minutes at the end if you want crispy edges.
  9. Remove from oven and let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions if desired.
  10. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For best results, use day-old rice to prevent mushiness. Toast the taco seasoning in the pan for extra flavor. If your salsa or tomato sauce is watery, drain off some liquid to avoid a soupy casserole. Let the casserole rest before serving for easier scooping. Easily adaptable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian diets—see blog for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco casserole, ground beef, rice casserole, cheesy bake, family dinner, Tex-Mex, easy casserole, meal prep, comfort food, kid friendly

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/cheesy-taco-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole-bake-recipe-easy-family-dinner/