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Cheesy Black Beans & Rice: A Flavorful One-Pot Meal
Youssef Hb

Cheesy Black Beans & Rice

A creamy, tangy Mexican-inspired one-pot dish combining fluffy rice, zesty salsa, black beans, and melted cheese for a comforting family meal. Ready in 25 minutes with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup white rice or brown rice
  • 1 cup salsa (or salsa verde)
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup Colby Jack or Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
  • Notes: Brown rice requires 1½ oz extra liquid per cup

Method
 

  1. Combine rice, salsa, and water in a rice cooker or saucepan
  2. Cook according to rice directions (18-20 minutes)
  3. Add lime juice during final 2 minutes of cooking
  4. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) for 5 minutes
  5. Transfer rice mixture to an oven-safe casserole dish
  6. Layer rinsed black beans evenly over the rice
  7. Sprinkle cheese over the beans
  8. Bake for 5 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling
  9. Let rest 2 minutes before serving

Notes

For vegan version: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast
Oven is only for melting - do not overheat
Garlic powder (1/8 tsp) enhances bean aroma
Adjust liquid volume based on rice type