Introduction
Get ready for a flavor-packed Tex-Mex feast that’s both comforting and easy to make! This Cheesy Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Bake with Chipotle Crema is a crowd-pleaser loaded with savory ground beef, zesty spices, hearty rice, and melty cheese. It’s the ultimate one-pan meal that brings together the bold, vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Topped with a smoky chipotle crema, this dish offers a perfect balance of creaminess, heat, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
For the Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Bake:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Chipotle Crema:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Crema
- In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir until well combined, then cover and refrigerate to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink.
- Drain any excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Spices
- Stir in diced bell peppers and corn kernels.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to coat the vegetables and beef evenly with the spices.
Step 5: Incorporate Rice and Liquids
- Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the skillet.
- Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 6: Simmer the Mixture
- Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the black beans.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the skillet mixture.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Top with chopped cilantro and a generous drizzle of chipotle crema.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, flavorful goodness!
Cooking Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For a spicier kick, add extra chipotle peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the chipotle crema.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain option, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish with a side of tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Pair with a simple salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for a fresh, tangy contrast.
- A side of guacamole or salsa makes an excellent accompaniment.
Tips
- Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet for easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
- If the dish is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it up before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 6g
Conclusion
This Cheesy Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Bake with Chipotle Crema is a comforting, satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Southwest to your table. The combination of spices, beef, cheese, and the creamy chipotle topping creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a versatile, family-friendly dish that’s easy to make and sure to become a weeknight staple. Whether you’re a fan of bold Tex-Mex flavors or looking for a new go-to casserole recipe, this dish won’t disappoint!
PrintCheesy Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Bake with Chipotle Crema
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Bake:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Chipotle Crema:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Crema
- In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir until well combined, then cover and refrigerate to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink.
- Drain any excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Spices
- Stir in diced bell peppers and corn kernels.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to coat the vegetables and beef evenly with the spices.
Step 5: Incorporate Rice and Liquids
- Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the skillet.
- Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 6: Simmer the Mixture
- Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the black beans.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the skillet mixture.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Top with chopped cilantro and a generous drizzle of chipotle crema.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, flavorful goodness!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 900mg
- Protein: 22g