Cheesy Beef & Black Bean Skillet Casserole: A One-Pan Wonder for Busy Nights

Looking for a quick, satisfying, and delicious meal that requires minimal effort and clean-up? This Cheesy Beef & Black Bean Skillet Casserole is the perfect answer. Packed with bold flavors, protein, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in just 30 minutes! 

It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have time for an elaborate meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience – No need for multiple pots and pans.

• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.

• Flavor-Packed – A perfect blend of seasoned beef, black beans, tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese.

• Customizable – Easily adaptable for different dietary needs and preferences.

• Family-Friendly – A hit with kids and adults alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this cheesy skillet casserole, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional, for heat)

• 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• Sliced jalapeños

• Diced avocado

• Crushed tortilla chips

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

How to Make Cheesy Beef & Black Bean Skillet Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Beans, Tomatoes, and Spices

Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), green chilies (if using), corn, and seasonings (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano). Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Incorporate the Rice

Stir in the cooked rice and mix well. Reduce the heat to low and let everything warm through.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Spread the sour cream evenly over the top of the mixture. Then, sprinkle both types of shredded cheese generously over the top.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes on low heat until the cheese is fully melted and gooey. Alternatively, you can transfer the skillet to a preheated oven (375°F) and bake for 5-7 minutes until bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips as desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Spicier – Add extra diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.

• Low-Carb Option – Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice.

• Vegetarian Version – Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra beans.

• Dairy-Free – Use dairy-free cheese and coconut yogurt instead of sour cream.

• Extra Protein – Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken along with the beef.

What to Serve With Cheesy Beef & Black Bean Skillet Casserole

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it with:

• A fresh green salad

• Warm flour or corn tortillas

• A side of guacamole and salsa

FAQs

1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, heat it up, add the cheese topping, and serve.

2. Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in a skillet or oven.

3. Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?

Of course! Feel free to mix and match with Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.

4. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

5. What’s the Best Skillet to Use?

A cast-iron skillet works best because it distributes heat evenly and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly. However, any oven-safe skillet will work fine.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Beef & Black Bean Skillet Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers big on flavor and convenience. Try it out and make it your own with your favorite toppings and variations!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet and get cooking!