Cheesy Black-Eyed Pea Casserole
This Cheesy Black-Eyed Pea Casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender black-eyed peas, savory ground beef, and rich cheddar cheese makes for a comforting dish that is sure to please. Thanks to its easy preparation in the crockpot or oven, this versatile casserole is ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners. Enjoy the Southwestern flair that brings a delightful twist to classic comfort food. Your guests will be asking for seconds!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lean ground beef
1 lb (browned)
Black-eyed peas with jalapenos
2 (32 oz) cans (drained)
Cooked rice
2 cups (cooked)
Diced tomatoes
1 (16 oz) can (with juices)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Onion
1/4 cup (minced)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Garlic clove
1 (crushed)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, drained black-eyed peas, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), shredded cheddar cheese, minced onion, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3
Transfer the mixture into a 13x9x2-inch casserole dish or a crockpot.
4
If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
5
If using a crockpot, cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
6
Once done, serve warm and enjoy the flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Black-Eyed Pea Casserole?
It is a comforting Southwestern-style dish featuring black-eyed peas, ground beef, rice, and cheddar cheese.
How do I prepare the ground beef?
Brown the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the casserole bake in the oven?
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
Can I cook this recipe in a crockpot?
Yes, you can transfer the mixture to a crockpot, cover it, and cook on low for 4 hours.
Do I need to drain the black-eyed peas?
Yes, the instructions specify to drain the two 32 oz cans of black-eyed peas with jalapenos.
Should I drain the diced tomatoes?
No, include the juices from the 16 oz can of diced tomatoes when mixing the ingredients.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for shredded cheddar cheese, but you can use your favorite melting cheese.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What size casserole dish is required?
A 13x9x2-inch casserole dish is recommended for this recipe.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use 2 cups of any cooked rice, including brown rice.
Is this casserole spicy?
It has a mild kick because it uses black-eyed peas with jalapenos, but the cheese and rice help balance the heat.
What seasonings are used in this dish?
The casserole is seasoned with minced onion, salt, pepper, and one crushed garlic clove.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey, ground chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative can be used as a substitute.
Do I cover the casserole when baking in the oven?
No, the instructions indicate it should be baked uncovered for 25 minutes.
Is this dish suitable for potlucks?
Yes, its easy preparation and large serving size make it perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mixture in the baking dish and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What if I cannot find black-eyed peas with jalapenos?
You can use regular canned black-eyed peas and add a small can of diced green chiles for a similar flavor.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your canned goods and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini would make excellent additions to the mixture.
What is the preparation for the onion?
The onion should be finely minced, requiring 1/4 cup total.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for one crushed garlic clove.
How many cans of black-eyed peas are needed?
The recipe requires two 32 oz cans of black-eyed peas.
Is this recipe considered a main course?
Yes, with protein from the beef and peas plus starch from the rice, it is a complete main meal.
What gives this dish a Southwestern flair?
The combination of black-eyed peas, jalapenos, tomatoes, and garlic provides its Southwestern flavor profile.
Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the mixture?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 2 cups of already cooked rice.
Can I add more cheese on top?
Absolutely, many people enjoy adding an extra layer of cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.