Pueblo Beef And Rice Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and smoky green chiles, topped with cheese and creamy sour cream mixture, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the ground beef.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef, tomatoes, chopped onion, taco seasoning, and chili powder.
- In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, sliced black olives, and green chiles.
- Use a 9x13 inch pan to layer half of the beef and rice mixture, half of the sour cream mixture, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a can of corn or diced bell peppers to the beef and rice mixture. If you prefer a spicier dish, use hot taco seasoning or add jalapeños. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. This casserole can be customized with other ingredients like black beans or corn, giving it a unique twist similar to M'M Good Taco Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch. You can also serve it with guacamole or Janice'S Taco Salad Dip for added flavor. For a cozy touch, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Be sure to cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pueblo Beef And Rice Casserole contains roughly 1126 calories, with 57g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (114% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), and iron (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 freeze Pueblo Beef and Rice Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in the baking dish but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free sour cream substitute available in stores.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the dish while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
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).