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Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the preparation steps that will transform these components into a delicious fiesta bake.

Tex-Mex Ground Beef Rice Bake

Discover the joy of comfort food with the Tex-Mex Fiesta Bake, a delightful casserole that will warm your heart and impress your family and friends. Featuring ground beef, colorful veggies, flavorful spices, and gooey cheese, this dish embodies the vibrant spirit of Tex-Mex cuisine. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to prepare and packed with robust flavors. Gather your ingredients and create a dish that will become a new favorite at your table!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup bell peppers, diced (a mix of red and green for vibrant color)

1 cup corn (can use frozen or canned, drained if using canned)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup sour cream (for serving)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it from the skillet.

      Sauté the Vegetables: Incorporate the chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the diced bell peppers and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften.

        Combine All Ingredients: Stir in the corn, black beans, rinsed rice, diced tomatoes (along with their juices), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the flavorful mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.

            Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap in steam, and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and scatter the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted and the rice is fully cooked.

              Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, allow the dish to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Serve it hot, topped with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                  - Presentation Tips: Consider serving this dish straight from the baking dish family-style, or portioning it into individual bowls. A sprinkle of extra cilantro on top along with some tortilla chips on the side can elevate the presentation!