Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a fiesta of flavors with our mouthwatering Bean and Rice Fajita Casserole! This Mexican-inspired dish is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that combines the hearty goodness of black beans, perfectly seasoned rice, and a melty cheese topping that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a busy parent, a college student, or simply someone who loves delicious, easy-to-make meals, this casserole is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black beans, cooked rice, sliced bell peppers, sliced onion, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the teaspoon of taco seasoning to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the ingredients.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the bean and rice mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the first layer of the mixture in the baking dish.
- Layer the remaining bean and rice mixture on top of the first layer, spreading it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheese, ensuring that it covers the entire surface for a delicious cheesy topping.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it is tightly sealed to retain moisture during baking.
- Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into portions.
- Serve the Bean and Rice Fajita Casserole warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado if desired. Enjoy your delicious Mexican-inspired meal!
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using homemade taco seasoning or roasting your bell peppers and onions before adding them to the mixture.
- Use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice to maintain the best texture and moisture in your casserole.
- Feel free to customize the cheese – try a Mexican blend or add some pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a protein boost, add some cooked chicken or ground beef to the mixture.
- Make sure to drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly to prevent excess liquid in your casserole.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
