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Cheesy Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with beef mince, tomatoes, and spices.

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

A hearty and comforting one-dish meal featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and a generous layer of melty cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the casserole
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1.5 cups long grain rice, uncooked Long grain rice helps to avoid mushiness.
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend), divided Use your favorite cheese.
  • 1 small jalapeno, sliced (optional) For a spicier option.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go.
  3. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until they start to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in garlic for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add rice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for about 1 minute so the rice gets coated.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chiles, black beans, corn, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
  6. Pour everything into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
Baking
  1. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  2. Uncover, sprinkle on the remaining 1 cup cheese and jalapeno slices, then bake uncovered for 10 minutes until bubbly.
  3. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep covered tightly with foil to trap steam while baking. Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set up better. You can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.