Vegetarian Mexican Rice and Bean Casserole

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, sliced

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.
3. 3 Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder, stirring for another minute.
4. 4 Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, black beans, vegetable broth, water, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. 5 Cover skillet and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
6. 6 Remove from oven, sprinkle with cheese, and return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
7. 7 Top with green onions before serving.

Equipment

• Large ovenproof skillet
• Oven

Variations

• Add sautéed zucchini or corn for extra veggies.
• Use brown rice for a whole grain option, though it will require a longer cook time.

Substitutions

• If you're out of long-grain white rice, substitute with jasmine or basmati rice.
• Use Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses in place of cheddar.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a side of guacamole or a simple refried beans.
• A crisp Mexican lager complements the flavors beautifully.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, use vegetable broth with a smoky chipotle kick.
• If you like it spicy, add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onions and bell pepper.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad and warm corn tortillas.
• A squeeze of lime and a dollop of sour cream adds a nice touch.

FAQ