60 minutes
A hearty and flavorful casserole dish that combines ground beef, rice, beans, corn, cheese, and spices for a comforting meal with a New Mexican twist.
0 lb
Yellow Onion, diced
each
Garlic Clove, minced
each
Diced Tomatoes With Green Chilis, undrained
0 oz
Corn Kernels, frozen or fresh
cups
Black Beans, drained and rinsed
0 oz
Taco Seasoning
packets
Cooked Rice
cups
Cheddar Cheese, shredded
cups
Cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
handful
to taste
to taste
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
3. Combine Ingredients
Mix in the undrained tomatoes with green chilis, corn, black beans, and taco seasoning. Cook until everything is heated through, about 5 minutes.
4. Assemble Dish
Stir the cooked rice into the skillet, then season with salt and pepper. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Replace the meat with black beans or quinoa. Maintain the tomato-based sauce but consider adding puréed roasted sweet potato for creaminess. Include roasted poblano peppers and spinach. Use corn tortillas for layers or a cornbread topping. Use a mix of smoked gouda and pepper jack for a smoky, spicy flavor.
Feature shrimp and andouille sausage for a seafood twist. Make a sauce with a Cajun roux base, bell peppers, celery, and onions. Stir in okra and diced tomatoes. Mix in cooked long-grain rice for the base. Sprinkle with a sharp cheddar cheese before baking.
Use ground lamb, seasoned with rosemary and mint. Create a sauce with diced tomatoes, olives, and feta brine. Add roasted eggplant and artichoke hearts. Incorporate layers of thinly sliced potatoes or cooked orzo. Crumble feta cheese on top before baking.
Instead of the traditional cheddar or Monterey Jack, try using pepper jack for extra spice, smoked gouda for a smoky taste, or a Mexican cheese like cotija for authenticity.
Swap out the usual ground beef or chicken for ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile. Consider adding chorizo for a smoky, spicy kick. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mix of black beans and quinoa or crumbled tempeh.
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