Black Bean and Rice Taco Casserole 🌮🌱

This delightful Black Bean and Rice Taco Casserole is a comforting dish that's bursting with flavor and packed with nutritious ingredients. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for feeding a crowd at a gathering. The layers of savory black beans, fragrant rice, and zesty toppings will leave everyone asking for seconds! Pair it with avocado or a side salad for a complete meal. 🥑🥗

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping

• 1 cup salsa
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Optional: Sliced jalapeños for a kick 🌶️

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

🥄 Cooking the onion until translucent brings out its sweetness, which balances the flavors in the casserole.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), corn, sautéed onion, and garlic. Stir in taco seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed.

4. Layer half of the rice and bean mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheese on top. Add the remaining rice and bean mixture and top with the remaining cheese.

5. Pour salsa evenly over the top.

6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

🍽️ Letting the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking allows flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.

7. Before serving, top with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and dollops of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Add sliced jalapeños if desired.

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced bell peppers and a teaspoon of chili powder to the mix for an extra kick!
• Quinoa Option: Substitute brown rice with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed variation that also adds a nice texture.
• Vegetarian or Vegan: Use plant-based cheese instead of dairy cheese and substitute Greek yogurt with cashew yogurt or skip it altogether.
• Add Extra Veggies: Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be mixed in for added nutrition.

Enjoy this hearty casserole on Taco Tuesday or any day of the week — it’s sure to please everyone at your table! 🎉🌮