Mexican Brown Rice Bake – Gluten Free

Instructions:

**1. Preheat the Oven & Cook the Rice:**
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the brown rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If there’s excess liquid, drain it off.

**2. Sauté the Vegetables:**
While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly in the spices. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant.

**3. Combine the Ingredients:**
Once the rice is done, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, mixing everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

**4. Assemble the Bake:**
Transfer the rice and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, covering the entire surface.

**5. Bake:**
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like your cheese extra golden, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

**6. Serve:**
Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.

### Why This Mexican Brown Rice Bake is a Game-Changer:

**1. One-Dish Comfort:**
This dish is the ultimate comfort food with its cheesy, spicy layers and hearty base of rice and beans. You get a filling meal that doesn’t require multiple side dishes—everything you need is in one pan!

**2. Full of Fiber & Protein:**
Brown rice and black beans are an excellent source of fiber and protein, making this dish not only delicious but also filling and nutritious. The combination of these ingredients helps keep you satisfied for hours, without leaving you feeling sluggish.

**3. Easy to Make Ahead:**
Make this dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven, and enjoy a quick and tasty meal without any extra work.

**4. Family-Friendly:**
Whether you have picky eaters or a group of hungry mouths to feed, this dish is sure to please everyone. The flavors are bold but not overpowering, and the ingredients are familiar enough for kids to enjoy while still being packed with nutrients.

**5. Perfect for Leftovers:**
Leftovers are a win with this recipe! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or for a quick lunch the following day.

### Pro Tips for the Perfect Mexican Brown Rice Bake:

– **Add Extra Veggies:** Feel free to toss in any extra veggies you love. Zucchini, spinach, or even sweet potatoes would make great additions to this dish.

– **Spice It Up:** If you prefer a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix for an extra kick.

– **Cheese Options:** If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.

– **Add Protein:** For a heartier version, add shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even beef to the rice and vegetable mixture. It’s an easy way to boost the protein content of the dish.

### Conclusion:

The *Mexican Brown Rice Bake* is the ultimate comfort food that’s both satisfying and wholesome. With its flavorful blend of spices, healthy ingredients, and cheesy goodness, it’s a meal that’s sure to be loved by everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep solution, or a dish that’s gluten-free and packed with nutrients, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

So, next time you’re in need of a flavorful, easy-to-make meal, give this Mexican Brown Rice Bake a try. It’s bound to become a family favorite, and you’ll have trouble resisting the urge to go back for seconds—or even thirds!