Best One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

Craving the flavors of Mexican cuisine without the hassle of multiple dishes? This Best One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole brings together the rich, zesty flavors of taco-seasoned beef, tender rice, and melted cheese in a single skillet meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers a hearty and satisfying dinner option the whole family will love.

This casserole is a complete meal in one pot! With savory ground beef, fragrant spices, and a cheesy topping, each bite packs a punch of flavor. Plus, the ingredients are versatile—feel free to add black beans, diced green chiles, or your favorite salsa for added flair.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1-1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15-oz) can of corn, drained
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your favorite cheese)

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

1. Return skillet to the heat, sprinkle taco seasoning and garlic powder over the cooked beef, and stir well to blend flavors.

Step 3: Mix in the Main Ingredients

1. Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, drained corn, tomato sauce, and salsa to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are combined.

Step 4: Simmer the Casserole

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

1. Once rice is fully cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Remove from heat, and garnish with optional toppings like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced green onions. Serve Best One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole with sides like guacamole, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

• Variations: Add black beans, diced green chiles, or extra veggies like bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Spiciness: Adjust heat level by choosing a mild or hot salsa, and add chili powder if you prefer a spicier kick.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with guacamole, sour cream, and tortilla chips for a full Mexican-inspired meal.

1. Can I make this recipe with brown rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Add an additional 1/2 cup of beef broth and increase simmer time to about 30-35 minutes, or until rice is tender.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap ground beef for a plant-based ground or simply omit it. Add extra beans like black beans or pinto beans for protein.

3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet.

5. What other toppings work well with this casserole?
Try toppings like diced avocados, pickled jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or even a drizzle of lime crema for a fresh and vibrant finish.

This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the convenience of minimal cleanup and the warmth of Mexican-inspired spices in every bite!

Best One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

The Best One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed dish combining rice, ground beef, tomatoes, black beans, and cheese in one skillet. This easy-to-make casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner option, bringing the bold and zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with minimal prep and cleanup. With a hint of spice, plenty of melted cheese, and fresh toppings like cilantro and sour cream, it’s ideal for busy families, meal prepping, or anyone who loves a quick, savory meal. This one-pot recipe ensures you’ll have a delicious, wholesome dinner ready in under an hour!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex

Servings 6

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken
• 1 small onion diced
• 1 bell pepper any color, diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
• 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
• 1½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
• 1 packet 1 oz taco seasoning mix
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro green onions, diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado slices

Instructions

 

• Cook the Ground Beef
• In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease if needed.
• Sauté Vegetables
• Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
• Add Rice and Seasoning
• Stir in the uncooked rice, taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to toast the rice slightly, which enhances its flavor.
• Add Liquid and Other Ingredients
• Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, and corn. Stir well to combine, making sure the rice is evenly distributed.
• Simmer
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add Cheese
• Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top. Cover again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
• Serve
• Garnish with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, green onions, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or avocado slices. Serve warm and enjoy!

Video

Notes

• For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when adding the other vegetables.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
• Swap in brown rice for a healthier version, but increase the cook time by 10–15 minutes.

 

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