1 1/2 cups of white rice, prepared according to instructions
1 tsp of olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
salt and pepper, to taste
1 15 oz can of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 15 oz can of tomato sauce (I use 8oz can tomato sauce and 8oz can spicy tomato sauce found in Mexican section of grocery store)
3-4 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
3-4 tomatoes, sliced thickly
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare rice according to instructions.
While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, making sure to break it up as it cooks. After a few minutes of cooking add the diced onion and all of the seasonings. Stir until well combined and cook until the beef is cooked through. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly for an additional 60 seconds.
Add the cooked rice, drained and rinsed black beans, tomato sauce and a bit of cilantro (reserving some for garnishing) to the beef and onion mixture. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, taste and re-season if needed.
Coat a large baking dish with cooking spray and pour the rice mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Place the tomato slices on top of the rice mixture then top with cheddar cheese.
