Cheesy Pork and Bean Fiesta Casserole
Indulge in a hearty Cheesy Pork and Bean Fiesta Casserole that combines tender pork shoulder with zesty spices, creamy mushroom soup, and the wholesome goodness of black beans and rice. This versatile dish can easily be switched up with chicken or beef, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Infused with green chiles and salsa, every bite bursts with flavor, while the topping of melted cheddar cheese ensures a deliciously gooey finish. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe is easy to double for larger families or potluck events. Serve it hot with a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess and a touch of freshness.
N/A
Servings
250
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless pork shoulder
1 3/4 lbs (cut into about 1-inch cubes)
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste
oil
4 tablespoons (can use less if desired)
large onion
1 (chopped)
dried chili pepper flakes
2 teaspoons (optional or to taste)
fresh garlic
1-2 tablespoons (minced or to taste)
black beans
1 (15 ounce) can (rinsed and drained)
cream of mushroom soup
1 (10 ounce) can (undiluted)
diced green chili peppers
2 (4 ounce) cans (drained)
instant Minute Rice
1 cup (uncooked)
water or broth
1/4 cup (chicken or beef broth can be used)
salsa
1/2 cup (mild or spicy as preferred)
cumin
2-4 teaspoons (or to taste)
cheddar cheese
3/4 cup (grated)
sour cream
to serve
Instructions
1
Begin by seasoning the pork shoulder pieces generously with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
2
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork and sauté until browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
3
During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and dried chili pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet, stirring frequently until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
4
Transfer the cooked pork mixture to a greased 2 to 3-quart casserole dish, ensuring an even layer.
5
In the same dish, add the black beans, cream of mushroom soup, diced green chili peppers, instant rice, water or broth, salsa, cumin, and additional salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well combined.
6
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquids.
7
Remove the foil, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, and return it to the oven for another 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8
Serve hot, with a dollop of sour cream on the side for added flavor and creaminess.
Nutrition Information
13.5
Fat
20
Carbs
15
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in the Cheesy Pork and Bean Fiesta Casserole?
The main protein is 1 3/4 lbs of boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes.
Can I substitute the pork with another meat?
Yes, the recipe is versatile and can easily be switched to chicken or beef.
What type of rice is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of uncooked instant Minute Rice.
Do the black beans need to be prepared before adding to the dish?
Yes, one 15-ounce can of black beans should be rinsed and drained before use.
What kind of soup serves as the base for this casserole?
A 10-ounce can of undiluted cream of mushroom soup is used as the base.
How many cans of green chili peppers are needed?
The recipe requires two 4-ounce cans of diced green chili peppers, which should be drained.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F.
How long should the casserole bake initially?
The casserole should bake covered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
How do I finish the dish with cheese?
Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until bubbly.
Should the casserole dish be covered while baking?
Yes, cover the dish with foil for the first 25-30 minutes to ensure the rice absorbs the liquids.
What type of cheese is recommended for the topping?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese.
What is the suggested serving accompaniment?
It is recommended to serve the dish hot with a dollop of sour cream on the side.
How much salsa should be added to the mixture?
Add 1/2 cup of salsa, which can be mild or spicy based on your preference.
What spices give this casserole its fiesta flavor?
The flavor comes from cumin, dried chili pepper flakes, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings or potlucks?
Yes, the recipe is easy to double for larger families or potluck events.
What size casserole dish is needed?
A 2 to 3-quart casserole dish is recommended for this recipe.
How do I prepare the pork shoulder before baking?
Season the pork with salt and pepper and sauté it in a skillet for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through.
When should the onions and garlic be added during cooking?
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic during the last 3 minutes of sautéing the pork.
How many calories are in one serving of this casserole?
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 13.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 15 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use broth instead of water to cook the rice?
Yes, you can use 1/4 cup of chicken or beef broth instead of water for extra flavor.
How much cumin is required?
Use 2 to 4 teaspoons of cumin, depending on your taste preference.
Is the garlic used in this recipe fresh?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 to 2 tablespoons of fresh minced garlic.
Can I reduce the amount of oil used for sautéing?
Yes, you can use less than the 4 tablespoons of oil mentioned if desired.
Do I need to cook the rice before mixing it into the casserole?
No, use uncooked instant Minute Rice as it will cook in the oven with the other ingredients.
What flavor profile can I expect from this dish?
It is a hearty and zesty dish with a gooey cheese finish and a touch of creaminess from the mushroom soup.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The recipe is tagged as a casserole, pork, beans, cheesy, easy dinner, comfort food, and a one pot meal.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 16 total ingredients listed including seasonings and garnishes.