Here’s a tasty and Gluten-Free Mexican Brown Rice Bake that’s both healthy and comforting!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional for a cheesy version)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Brown Rice:
- Cook the brown rice according to package instructions, typically using about 2 cups of water or broth for 1 cup of rice. Once done, set aside.
- Prepare the Veggies:
- While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed veggies, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and the spices (cumin, chili powder, paprika). Add the vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Transfer the rice mixture into a greased baking dish (about 9×9 or 8×8 works well).
- If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the mixture.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together. If you added cheese, uncover the dish for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes:
- For added protein: You can add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even some extra beans.
- For a spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Make it vegan: Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
This Mexican Brown Rice Bake is packed with flavor and can easily be made ahead of time for a quick meal! Enjoy!