Description
Cheesy Jalapeño Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Base:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup canned corn kernels
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sliced pickled jalapeños
1/2 cup sour cream (for garnish)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
2. Combine Ingredients:
Mix in the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well until evenly combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Arrange the sliced jalapeños on top of the cheese.
4. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Add dollops of sour cream on top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. 2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain the fat. 3. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. 4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking for 2 more minutes to toast the spices. 5. Add the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (including juices). Stir thoroughly to combine. 6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. 7. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese, then arrange the jalapeño slices on top. 8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are bubbly. 9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Warm tortilla chips or soft flour tortillas on the side are perfect for scooping. For a lighter option, add a side of avocado slices or a quick pico de gallo. It also makes excellent leftovers for packed lunches.
How-to Summary
This Cheesy Jalapeño Beef Casserole is a simple, one-dish meal. Brown beef with onions, garlic, and spices. Mix in rice, beans, corn, and tomatoes. Transfer to a dish, top with cheese and jalapeños, and bake until bubbly. Garnish with sour cream and cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How can I make it less spicy? Omit the jalapeños from the topping and use a can of plain diced tomatoes instead of tomatoes with green chilies. You can also use a mild cheese like Monterey Jack.
What can I use instead of rice? Cooked quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even crushed tortilla chips mixed into the base are great alternatives.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole? It freezes best before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using instant rice without cooking it first, as it will absorb too much liquid and become mushy. Do not skip draining the fat from the cooked beef, or the casserole will be greasy. Ensure your canned beans and corn are well-drained to prevent a watery final dish. Letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking is crucial; it allows the layers to set for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Jalapeño Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfectly balancing hearty protein, flavorful spices, and gooey cheese. It’s incredibly versatile, forgiving for substitutions, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a delicious, satisfying meal that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.