Name: Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) (soaked in veggie broth); 1 cup Veggie broth; 1 Tbsp Olive oil (for sautéing); 1 Tbsp Taco seasoning mix (plus an additional 2 Tbsp later); 1 tsp Onion powder; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 Onion (diced); 1 cup Black beans (canned or cooked); 1 cup Sweet corn (canned or frozen); 1 Bell Pepper (diced); 2 cups Rice (cooked); 1 cup Salsa; 2 Tbsp Taco seasoning mix (additional)

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to a hearty casserole that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Enter the Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole, a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly filling. This casserole brings together the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, the satisfying texture of meat without the meat, and an array of colorful veggies. Trust me, this is a meal that will delight both vegans and non-vegans alike!

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole deserves a place in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Second, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of vegetables while still satisfying your cravings for hearty, meaty meals. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep; you can easily make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. With its tantalizing aroma and vibrant colors, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

What Goes In

The ingredients in this delightful dish come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) – A fantastic meat substitute that soaks up flavors beautifully.
1 cup Veggie broth – Provides moisture and depth of flavor.
1 Tbsp Olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
1 + 1 Tbsp Taco seasoning mix – A blend of spices that bring the Mexican flavor profile to life.
1 tsp Onion powder – For an extra kick of onion flavor.
1 tsp Garlic powder – Adds a savory depth.
1 Onion – Diced, for sweetness and crunch.
1 cup Black beans – Canned or cooked, they provide protein and fiber.
1 cup Sweet corn – Canned or frozen, adding a touch of sweetness.
1 Bell Pepper – Diced, for color and crunch.
2 cups Rice – Cooked, a filling base for the casserole.
1 cup Salsa – For moisture and zest.
2 Tbsp Taco seasoning mix – To enhance the flavors even more.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools at hand:

Large skillet or frying pan – For sautéing the veggies and TVP.
Baking dish – To hold your casserole while it bakes.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing and stirring.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Cutting board and knife – For chopping your vegetables.

Cook Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole Like This

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to whip up your Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the TVP

In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup TVP with the 1 cup veggie broth and let it soak for about 10 minutes until it has absorbed the liquid and softened.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft. Stir in the 1 tsp onion powder and 1 tsp garlic powder for additional flavor.

Step 3: Add the TVP

Mix the softened TVP into the skillet along with 1 + 1 Tbsp taco seasoning mix. Stir well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Combine Other Ingredients

Next, add the 1 cup black beans, 1 cup sweet corn, and 2 cups cooked rice to the skillet. Pour in the 1 cup salsa and the 2 Tbsp taco seasoning mix. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy your Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or additional salsa!

If You’re Out Of…

No worries! Here are some easy substitutions if you find yourself missing an ingredient:

No TVP? Use crumbled tempeh or lentils as a substitute.
No black beans? Any canned beans like kidney or pinto beans will work.
No salsa? You can use diced tomatoes and add some extra spices.
No cooked rice? Quinoa or cauliflower rice can make a great alternative.

Cook’s Commentary

This Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a canvas for your creativity. Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or spinach. You can also spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños if you like it spicy. The best part? It’s a versatile dish that can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole has cooled to room temperature, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well, so feel free to make a double batch and store half for later!

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why did my casserole turn out mushy?

This can happen if there’s too much liquid or if the rice was not drained properly. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and use cooked rice that’s been cooled.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

What should I serve with the casserole?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, avocado slices, or chilaquiles for a complete meal.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

To make your Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole gluten-free, ensure that your taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free brands. Substitute regular rice with brown rice or quinoa for a gluten-free grain.

The Last Word

With its robust flavors and satisfying ingredients, the Meaty Vegan Mexican Rice Casserole is a dish that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this casserole is sure to impress. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the essence of Mexican cooking while keeping it plant-based and nourishing. Enjoy every bite!