Next, I add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, corn, and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir everything together well. The vibrant colors in the mixture are so appetizing, and the spices start to mingle, creating a mouthwatering scent. After ensuring everything is combined, I taste for seasoning and add salt and pepper as needed. In a separate bowl, I mix half of the cheese with the salsa, and then fold this mixture into the bean and meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Now, it’s casserole time! I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, I pour the chili mixture, spreading it evenly. The anticipation builds as I top the casserole with the remaining cheese. Just imagining how gooey and melty the cheese will become has my mouth watering! Finally, I pop it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Once it’s out of the oven, I let it cool for a few minutes. The cheese makes such a gorgeous, stretchy ribbon as I serve it up. It looks so inviting! I love to garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for that splash of freshness right before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I always recommend using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese, if possible. The texture melts so much better! I tested this three ways, and the difference is noticeable in both flavor and meltiness. For those who enjoy heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick—trust me, it’s worth it!
When it comes to the oven time, keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of baking. Every oven behaves a bit differently, and you don’t want that cheesy top to over-brown or, even worse, burn. The moment you see those beautiful bubbles, it’s time to pull it out!
Lastly, feel free to mix in whatever veggies you have on hand. I’ve added chopped bell peppers and zucchini in the past, and they blend right in with the chili base. It’s a great way to sneak in some healthy goodness without compromising flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made in the past is packing the casserole too tightly in the baking dish. This can lead to uneven cooking and the dreaded uncooked bottom. I’ve found that giving the mixture some breathing room really helps everything cook evenly and develop that delicious flavor throughout. (See the next page below to continue…)