Here’s a hearty Cheesy Mexican-Inspired Casserole—full of flavor, gooey cheese, and easy to make 🌮🧀
🧀 Cheesy Mexican-Inspired Casserole
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the base:
- 2 cups cooked Rice
- 1 can (400g) Black beans
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
For the protein:
- 300g Chicken breast (cooked and shredded) or cooked beef/turkey
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the cheese & sauce:
- 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, avocado, or sliced jalapeños
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish
2. Prepare the Base
- In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, beans, corn, onion, and bell pepper
- Add cooked shredded chicken (or meat)
- Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Mix shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and garlic powder
- Fold half of the mixture into the rice and chicken base
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer rice and chicken mixture to the baking dish
- Spread remaining cheese mixture evenly on top
5. Bake
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly
- Optional: broil 2–3 minutes for a golden top
6. Serve
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or jalapeños
- Serve with a side of salsa or sour cream
🔥 Tips
- Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding extra beans or roasted vegetables
- Use cooked quinoa instead of rice for a higher-protein version
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave
If you want, I can also give a one-pan stovetop version that’s quicker and just as cheesy.
Do you want me to do that?
