Description
This Southwestern Black Bean Casserole is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian main dish packed with black beans, corn, rice, and a blend of southwestern spices. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for an easy, comforting dinner with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Sauté Vegetables and Spices: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then, stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute to release the spices’ aromas.
- Add Beans, Corn, Rice, and Tomatoes: Add drained black beans, cooked corn kernels, cooked rice, and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is heated through.
- Incorporate Cream and Salsa: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in sour cream and salsa thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the bean and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly to set. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving to add a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked ground beef or turkey to the bean mixture before baking.
- Increase the spiciness by adding diced jalapeños or using a hot salsa instead of mild.
- Quinoa can be substituted for rice for a higher-protein and gluten-free option.
