Spicy Chipotle Beef and Rice Casserole with Corn and Tomatoes

A warm, savory dish, this Spicy Chipotle Beef and Rice Casserole is a perfect comfort meal that brings together the flavors of smoky chipotle peppers, hearty ground beef, tender rice, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes, all blanketed with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Ideal for weeknights, this casserole is easy to assemble, packs bold flavors, and is sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup rice (white or brown, uncooked)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup canned or frozen corn kernels
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Aromatics

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Rice

1. Stir in the minced chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using).
2. Add the uncooked rice, stirring to coat it well with the spices and beef mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Corn

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and corn kernels.
2. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Add Broth and Bake

1. Gradually pour in the beef or chicken broth, stirring to combine.
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

1. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
2. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Cooking Note:

• Adjusting Spice Level: Add more or fewer chipotle peppers based on your spice preference. Start with one pepper for a milder flavor and increase as desired.
• Rice Choice: White rice will cook faster, but brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrients if preferred. Adjust cooking time for brown rice as it may take longer to soften.
• Broth Variations: Using beef broth will enhance the meatiness, while chicken broth offers a lighter flavor option.

Serving Suggestions:

This Spicy Chipotle Beef and Rice Casserole is best served hot and is delicious with:

• A side salad of greens with a tangy vinaigrette
• Warm tortilla chips for scooping
• A slice of avocado or guacamole for added creaminess
• Additional salsa or hot sauce for those who want more heat

Tips:

• For Extra Smokiness: Add a dash of smoked paprika or even a few drops of liquid smoke for a stronger smoky depth.
• Cheese Options: Try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for extra creaminess and a hint of spice.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered, until warmed through.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

45-50 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 750mg

Conclusion:

With its smoky, bold flavors and creamy, cheesy top, this Spicy Chipotle Beef and Rice Casserole is a flavorful meal that will please the whole family. Simple to prepare yet packed with satisfying ingredients, it’s a versatile dish perfect for cozy nights or gatherings.

Spicy Chipotle Beef and Rice Casserole with Corn and Tomatoes

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• Author: Imili Johnson
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup rice (white or brown, uncooked)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup canned or frozen corn kernels
• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Aromatics

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Rice

1. Stir in the minced chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using).
2. Add the uncooked rice, stirring to coat it well with the spices and beef mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Corn

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and corn kernels.
2. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Add Broth and Bake

1. Gradually pour in the beef or chicken broth, stirring to combine.
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

1. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
2. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sodium: 750mg
• Protein: 22g