Mama's Black Eyed Pea Casserole
Mama's Black Eyed Pea Casserole is a cozy, Southern-style dish made with black eyed peas, rice, ground meat, veggies, and cheddar cheese. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for family dinners or New Year’s celebrations.
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking Dish
- Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups black eyed peas cooked and drained
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup tomatoes chopped, drained if canned
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in tomatoes, cooked rice, and black eyed peas. Mix until well combined.
- Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Notes
Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor. Avoid using uncooked rice. Drain tomatoes well to prevent a watery casserole. Reheat leftovers in the oven for best results.