Southwest Cheesy Rice and Bean Casserole Recipe 🌶️🧀
Looking for a delicious, comforting, and nutritious dish that satisfies every craving? This Southwest Cheesy Rice and Bean Casserole is your answer. Perfect as a main dish or a hearty side, it’s packed with fiber, flavor, and melty cheese that brings the whole thing together. Best of all? It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and naturally gluten-free! 🌽🍅
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
This casserole brings bold Southwest flavors together with pantry staples like rice, beans, and spices. The result is a cheesy, protein-rich dish that’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Top Features
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake when ready.
- Balanced Nutrition: Includes whole grains, legumes, and vegetables.
- Customizable: Add meat, switch cheeses, or spice it up!
- Kid-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful enough for all ages.
Chef Tips: What the Pros Say
“This is the kind of casserole that becomes a family favorite—colorful, comforting, and full of flavor.” — Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman)
“Layering spices like cumin and smoked paprika builds a depth of flavor that makes simple ingredients shine.” — Chef Bobby Flay
“Don’t skimp on the salsa—it keeps the casserole moist and adds that punch of acidity.” — Gordon Ramsay
Ingredients for Southwest Casserole
🌽 Pantry & Produce
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup black beans (drained & rinsed)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- ½ cup salsa (your preferred heat level)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ÂĽ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
🧀 Dairy & Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13” baking dish with olive oil or spray.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add onions and bell peppers and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Then stir in beans, corn, and tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Spices
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook 2 more minutes to let flavors develop.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice with the sautéed mixture. Stir in salsa and ½ cup of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
Step 5: Assemble & Top
Spread the mixture evenly into your baking dish. Top with the remaining ½ cup cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Key Nutrients |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brown rice | 2 cups | 430 kcal | 10g | 6g | Magnesium, B-vitamins |
| Black beans | 1 cup | 227 kcal | 15g | 15g | Iron, folate |
| Corn | 1 cup | 132 kcal | 5g | 3g | Vitamin C, B6 |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup | 455 kcal | 28g | 0g | Calcium, Vitamin A |
| Salsa | ½ cup | 35 kcal | 1g | 1g | Antioxidants |
Total per serving (⅛ casserole): ~160–200 kcal, 10g protein, 5g fiber
FAQs: Southwest Rice and Bean Casserole
1. Can I use white rice?
Yes, white rice works too—just note that brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients.
2. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes—and it’s also gluten-free!
3. Can I add meat?
Absolutely! Add 1 cup cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or chorizo in step 4.
4. Can I prep this ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake when ready.
5. Does it freeze well?
Yes—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat to serve.
6. What cheese alternatives can I use?
Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, vegan cheese, or dairy-free blends.
7. Can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, hot salsa, or a dash of cayenne pepper.
8. What can I serve this with?
Try tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a fresh lime wedge.
9. Is this good for meal prep?
Yes! Portion into containers for a week’s worth of lunches or dinners.
10. How long will leftovers keep?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tortilla Chips: Serve casserole scooped over crispy chips for a nacho-style delight.
- Inside a Burrito: Wrap leftovers in a tortilla with sour cream and avocado.
- Next to a Salad: A side salad with lime vinaigrette complements this dish perfectly.
More Southwest-Inspired Dishes
Love this casserole? Try other fan favorites on Fresh Toner Hungar:
This Southwest Cheesy Rice and Bean Casserole is more than a recipe—it’s a reliable weeknight hero. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation. 🧀🌿🌶️
