Jalapeno Black-Eyed Pea Casserole
A hearty, spicy casserole combining black-eyed peas, ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions in melted butter until tender.
- Add lean ground beef and brown thoroughly.
- Stir in canned jalapeno peas, cooked rice, and chopped tomatoes.
- Mix everything well to combine.
- Pour mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using fresh jalapenos instead of canned ones. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the lean ground beef for a lighter option. If you have leftovers, adding a splash of hot sauce can enhance the flavors. Incorporating black beans could increase the protein and fiber content, making this dish even heartier.
Serving Suggestions
This Jalapeno Black-Eyed Pea Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal. For a Tex-Mex twist, serve with guacamole and sour cream on the side. It also makes a great dish for potlucks and family gatherings, where you can impress guests with its unique flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring to cover it to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Black-Eyed Pea Casserole contains roughly 2330 calories, with 51g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 178g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (102% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 632mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that you cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients to maintain flavor and texture.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).