Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Enchilada Bake
A hearty, cheesy casserole with layers of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and enchilada sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese.
Total: 60 minPrep: 15 minCook: 45 min6 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (250+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 (15 ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 green onions, sliced
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2 In a large skillet, cook ground beef with onion until browned; drain excess fat.
- 3 Stir in garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 4 In a separate pot, cook rice in water until tender.
- 5 Combine cooked rice, beef mixture, corn, green chilies, and half the enchilada sauce in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- 6 Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
- 7 Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- 8 Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- 9 Garnish with cilantro and green onions before serving.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Pot
Variations
- Add black beans for extra protein.
- Use chicken instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions
- Substitute ground turkey for beef.
- Use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Pairings
- Corn tortillas
- Guacamole
- Salsa
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
42g carbohydrates
Protein:
26g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
4g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, sauté onions before browning the beef.
- Make ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking for intensified flavors.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a 350°F oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
- Pair with a fresh avocado salad or simple greens.
FAQ
Can I use leftover cooked rice?
Absolutely! Just reduce the water accordingly.
Can I add beans?
Yes, add a can of drained and rinsed beans for extra heartiness.