Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with a dish that's both hearty and healthy? Look no further than our WW Baked Rice and Beans with Monterey Jack! This American classic combines the wholesome goodness of brown rice and black beans, topped with gooey Monterey Jack cheese that melts into a delicious, savory delight. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a total of 40 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a comforting meal that serves six, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep for the week. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a satisfying dish that will leave your taste buds singing!
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- While rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold water. Add beans to the skillet with onions and garlic.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Once rice is cooked, combine it with the bean mixture in the prepared baking dish. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the rice and bean mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and dish to cool slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality canned black beans and fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor of your dish. Organic options can make a noticeable difference!
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for a kick of flavor. A dash of hot sauce can also add a nice heat!
- Layer Your Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, consider layering some cheese within the rice and bean mixture before adding the final topping. This ensures every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture and nutrition. They can be sautéed along with the onions for a burst of color and flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Freshness: Top your baked dish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the entire meal.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven for a quick and easy meal any night of the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg