If you’re looking for an easy Mexican-inspired dinner that’s hearty without being overly heavy, this Cheesy Taco Beef and Rice Casserole is a great choice.

It combines lean ground beef, black beans, rice, tomatoes, peppers, and plenty of taco flavor in one simple casserole dish.

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights because most of the cooking happens in one skillet before everything is transferred to the oven. The result is a cheesy, flavorful dinner that’s easy to portion and great for leftovers.

Cheesy Taco Beef and Rice Casserole Weight Watchers Healthy Recipe

The Ingredients

Lean Ground Beef: Using 96% lean ground beef keeps this casserole high in protein while limiting the amount of saturated fat compared with higher-fat ground beef. Protein also helps make the meal satisfying.

Black Beans: Black beans are an excellent source of fiber and plant-based protein. They add heartiness to the casserole while helping make a smaller portion more filling.

Rice: Rice provides carbohydrates that give the casserole substance and energy. Using a moderate amount keeps the dish balanced without letting the rice overwhelm the other ingredients.

Bell Pepper: Bell peppers add color, crunch, vitamins, and antioxidants. They also provide natural sweetness that pairs nicely with the taco-seasoned beef.

Onion and Garlic: Onion and garlic add plenty of flavor without requiring a lot of additional fat. They also contain beneficial plant compounds and make the taco filling taste much more flavorful.

Rotel Tomatoes and Green Chiles: Rotel adds tomatoes and mild heat to the casserole while helping keep the beef mixture moist. The green chiles provide plenty of Mexican-inspired flavor without adding many calories.

Salsa: Salsa is an easy way to add tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices to the casserole. Choose your favorite variety, from mild to hot, depending on how spicy you like your food.

Taco Seasoning and Cumin: These spices give the casserole its classic taco flavor without needing a heavy sauce. Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that works especially well with the beef and beans.

Reduced-Fat Mexican Cheese: A moderate amount of reduced-fat Mexican cheese creates the melted, cheesy topping everyone expects from a casserole while keeping the recipe lighter.

Click here to track the points on your Weight Watchers app. The full nutrition information can be found at the bottom of the recipe card.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Beef and Rice Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Add the ground beef and diced onion to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking the beef apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Add the bell pepper and garlic. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the pepper begins to soften.

Stir in the Rotel, black beans, salsa, taco seasoning, and cumin. Cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the mixture to heat through.

Stir in the cooked rice until everything is evenly combined.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reduced-fat Mexican cheese over the top.

Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and add your favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is delicious on its own, but toppings can make it even better. Try adding:

Fat-free Greek yogurt or sour cream
Diced tomatoes
Green onions
Jalapeños
Shredded lettuce
Diced avocado

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes. Lean ground turkey is an easy substitute for the ground beef. You can use 93% lean or leaner ground turkey and prepare it the same way as the beef.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the cheese, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the refrigerator.

Can I use brown rice?

Absolutely. Brown rice works well in this recipe and adds additional fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor. Just make sure the rice is cooked before adding it to the casserole.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for longer storage.

Prep Time:15

Cook Time:25

Total Time:40

Ingredients

1 lb. 96% lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10 oz.) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup cooked white or brown rice
1 cup salsa
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1/2 teaspoon cumin
3/4 cup reduced-fat Mexican cheese, shredded
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Add the ground beef and diced onion to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking the beef apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Add the bell pepper and garlic. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the pepper begins to soften.
Stir in the Rotel, black beans, salsa, taco seasoning, and cumin. Cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the mixture to heat through.
Stir in the cooked rice until everything is evenly combined.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reduced-fat Mexican cheese over the top.
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and add your favorite toppings.

Notes

NUTRITION INFORMATION:

1 of 6 servings

277 calories, 6g total fat, 3g saturated fat, 1027 mg sodium, 29g total carbs, 7g dietary fiber, 5g sugars, 25g protein (myfitnesspal.com)

Servings: 6

Here are some more Weight Watchers friendly recipes:

Lasagna Casserole

Beef Noodle Casserole

Cheese Tortellini Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole

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