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Down Home Comfort Casserole

A heartwarming casserole that combines ground beef or chicken with colorful vegetables and spices, topped with melted cheese for a comforting family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef or chicken (or lentils) Use lentils for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the chopped bell peppers, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice with the meat and vegetable mixture. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly.
  7. Top with shredded cheese, spreading it over the entire surface.
Baking
  1. Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

This casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.