Let me tell you, nothing quite warms the soul like a hearty rice and bean casserole! This dish is not just comforting; it’s packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. I love how easy it is to whip up—seriously, it comes together in no time! You’ve got protein from the beans, fiber from the rice, and a whole lot of flavor thanks to the spices and veggies. It’s a one-dish wonder that feeds the family and keeps you satisfied. Plus, it’s vegetarian, so it’s perfect for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try this rice and bean casserole, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup of rice (white or brown, your choice!)
- 2 cups of cooked beans (any type you love—black, pinto, or kidney work beautifully)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (with juice for extra flavor)
- 1 onion, chopped (I prefer yellow for its sweetness)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1 teaspoon of cumin (for that warm, earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder (for a little kick—adjust to your taste)
- 2 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if you’re not strictly vegetarian)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully)
How to Prepare Rice and Bean Casserole
Alright, let’s get cooking! Preparing this rice and bean casserole is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want that oven nice and hot when you’re ready to bake!
- While the oven is warming up, grab a large pot and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat. You want to cook them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Next, add in your rice, cooked beans, diced tomatoes (with all the juicy goodness!), cumin, chili powder, and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to combine, and bring it to a boil.
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This step is key to letting the rice absorb all those delicious flavors, so don’t skip it!
- Now, carefully transfer the mixture into a casserole dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out. This is where the magic happens!
- Top it off with that shredded cheese—don’t be shy, the more, the merrier! Then, pop it into the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Wow, just wait until you see that golden cheesy goodness!
And there you have it! Your rice and bean casserole is fresh out of the oven, ready to be devoured. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this rice and bean casserole! Each serving is not only hearty but also offers a balanced mix of nutrients. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Sugar: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
These values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, you’re getting a fantastic meal that’s filling and nutritious. So dig in without guilt—your body will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-packed with spices and fresh ingredients that make every bite delightful.
- Nutritious and filling, thanks to the combination of rice and beans.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone at the table.
- One-dish wonder—easy cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!
- Customizable to your taste—switch up the beans, spices, or veggies as you like.
- Great for leftovers—tastes even better the next day!
Tips for Success
Ready to make your rice and bean casserole the absolute best it can be? Here are some of my top tips to ensure you nail this recipe every time!
- Rinse your rice: If you’re using white rice, give it a quick rinse under cold water before cooking. This helps remove excess starch and can keep your casserole from being too sticky.
- Cooked beans: If you’re using canned beans, make sure to rinse and drain them well. This helps cut down on sodium and keeps the dish from being too watery.
- Customize the spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the cumin and chili powder to match your taste. If you want a little more heat, add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños!
- Don’t skip the simmer: That 15 minutes of simmering is crucial! It lets the flavors meld together and ensures the rice cooks properly, so don’t rush this step.
- Experiment with toppings: Before baking, consider adding some sliced olives, chopped cilantro, or even a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips on top of the cheese for an extra crunch!
- Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve.
- Storage tip: If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven—just add a splash of broth to keep it moist!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a rice and bean casserole that’s not just good, but *great*! Happy cooking!
Variations of Rice and Bean Casserole
If you’re anything like me, you love mixing things up in the kitchen! This rice and bean casserole is incredibly versatile, and it’s so much fun to experiment with different ingredients. Here are some tasty variations to keep your meals exciting:
- Bean Bonanza: Switch up the beans! Try black beans for a rich flavor, or lentils for a different texture. You can even mix several types for a colorful, protein-packed delight!
- Spice it Up: Add some heat with diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for that extra kick. You could also toss in some taco seasoning for a zesty twist!
- Veggie Loaded: Sneak in more veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn are fantastic additions. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses! Pepper Jack adds a nice spice, while a blend of mozzarella and cheddar brings a melty, gooey texture that’s hard to resist.
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. You can also sprinkle some dried oregano or thyme into the mixture for a more aromatic flavor.
- Grain Swap: Feeling adventurous? Substitute quinoa or farro for the rice. They both add a hearty texture and are packed with nutrients!
- Mexican Fiesta: Top it off with some salsa or guacamole after baking for a fiesta-inspired twist. You can even serve it with tortilla chips on the side for that perfect crunch!
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to tailor the dish to your taste and dietary preferences. So go ahead, get creative, and make this rice and bean casserole your very own!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your delicious rice and bean casserole is ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete and satisfying meal! Trust me, these pairings will elevate your dinner experience to a whole new level.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad is the perfect complement! Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad to balance the hearty casserole.
- Guacamole and Chips: You can’t go wrong with some creamy guacamole and crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It adds a fun and festive touch that everyone will love!
- Mexican Street Corn: Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a fantastic side! Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, and chili powder will have your taste buds dancing.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli, add a colorful and nutritious element to your plate.
- Rice or Quinoa: If you’re craving more carbs, serve the casserole with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa. It’s a great way to soak up all the delicious flavors!
- Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top of your casserole can add a creamy, tangy contrast that’s absolutely delightful.
- Hot Sauce: For those who love a bit of heat, set out some hot sauce for drizzling over the casserole. It’s a great way to customize each serving!
These sides will help round out your meal, making it not just filling but also a feast for the senses. Enjoy every delicious bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This rice and bean casserole is not only delicious the first time around but also makes for fantastic leftovers that can taste even better the next day. Let me share how to store and reheat it properly so you can enjoy it again without missing a beat!
- Storing Leftovers: Once the casserole has cooled down, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and help prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. It should stay good for about 3-4 days—if it lasts that long!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for a later date, you can freeze portions of the casserole. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer—perfect for those busy nights when you don’t feel like cooking!
Now, when it comes to reheating, here’s what I recommend:
- Microwave: For a quick and easy option, pop a serving in the microwave. Just place it on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist), and heat for about 2-3 minutes. Check to see if it’s warmed through; if not, give it another minute. Stir halfway for even heating!
- Oven: If you prefer reheating in the oven (which I totally get—it brings back that freshly baked taste!), preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can even add a sprinkle of cheese on top for that melty goodness!
And there you have it! Properly storing and reheating your rice and bean casserole ensures you can enjoy it again and again. Dig in and savor those comforting flavors!
Print
Rice and Bean Casserole: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and nutritious rice and bean casserole that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups cooked beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add rice, beans, tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Transfer to a casserole dish and top with cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is melted.
Notes
- Can substitute brown rice for white rice.
- Use any type of beans you prefer.
- Add bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: rice and bean casserole