Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked rice
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Ground Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Season the Beef:

Add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Layer the Casserole:

Start by spreading the uncooked rice evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Next, pour the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) over the rice, spreading it evenly.
Add the layer of drained corn over the tomatoes.
Add the black beans as the next layer, spreading them evenly across the dish.
Finally, add the seasoned ground beef mixture on top of the black beans.
Add the Cheese and Broth:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef layer.
Pour the beef broth over the entire casserole, making sure it soaks through all the layers to help cook the rice.
Bake:

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the rice is fully cooked.
Serve:

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole—a perfect meal for family dinners!