Mexican Brown Rice Bake – Gluten Free

This Mexican Brown Rice Bake is a flavorful, hearty, and gluten-free dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Packed with wholesome brown rice, vibrant vegetables, beans, and Mexican spices, this casserole is both nutritious and satisfying. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional toppings: avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges, or sour cream

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, sautéed vegetables, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, and spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper).
2. Stir until well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.

5. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with optional toppings like avocado slices, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or sour cream.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

1. Cook Rice Ahead: Use leftover brown rice or cook it a day in advance to save time.
2. Customize Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or jalapeños for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Vegan Option: Substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
4. Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and salsa to suit your heat preference.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Brown Rice Bake is a perfect one-dish meal that’s gluten-free, customizable, and loaded with bold flavors. Whether served as a main dish or paired with a side salad, it’s guaranteed to please the whole family!