Rice And Bean Casserole
A hearty casserole blending smoky bacon, flavorful black-eyed peas, and tender rice, topped with crumbled bacon—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the pan and drain all but 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Add the black-eyed peas with jalapeno peppers, stewed tomatoes, uncooked instant rice, and sliced onion to the pan.
- Cook, stirring until all ingredients are well coated and heated through.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the bacon with turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a healthier twist. You can also replace the black-eyed peas with pinto beans if you prefer. Adding a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika can enhance the dish's depth. Be sure to rinse the canned peas to reduce sodium content.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice and Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some homemade cornbread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside BBQ dishes or grilled vegetables for a tasty summer spread. For a heartier option, consider adding shredded cheese on top before baking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Bean Casserole contains roughly 335 calories, with 8g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 610mg 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 use brown rice instead of instant rice?
While you can use brown rice, it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. If using brown rice, adjust the cooking time and add an extra cup of water to ensure everything cooks evenly and the casserole remains moist.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it easy to grab for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat when you're ready to enjoy.
What can I add for extra protein?
To boost the protein content, consider adding cooked ground turkey or chicken, or even some diced tofu for a vegetarian option. These additions will complement the flavors and make the casserole even more filling.
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).