Yes please—this is one of those easy, cozy, throw-it-in-the-oven sides that goes with everything Tex-Mex or Mexican 🍅🌶️
Here’s a solid, flavorful version:
Mexican Brown Rice Bake 🍚🧀
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), drained
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1½ cups shredded Mexican-blend or cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook onion until soft; add garlic and cook 30 seconds. - Mix it all together
In a large bowl, combine cooked brown rice, onion mixture, corn, Rotel, black beans, spices, and half the cheese. - Bake
Transfer to baking dish, sprinkle remaining cheese on top. - Finish
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden. - Garnish & serve
Sprinkle with cilantro if using.
Easy Variations
- 🌶️ Spicy: add jalapeños or hot Rotel
- 🥑 Creamy: stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 🍗 Hearty: add shredded chicken or ground beef
- 🧀 Extra cheesy: mix in queso blanco
Serving Ideas
Perfect with carne guisada, enchiladas, tacos, or fajitas—this one plays well with everyone.
If you want, I can:
- convert this to a slow cooker
- make it lighter or dairy-free
- or scale it for a potluck or holiday meal
This is a “go back for seconds” kind of dish 😄
