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There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a dish that combines bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and minimal cleanup, which is exactly why this Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen. It’s a delicious medley of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, vibrant tomatoes, beans, and melted cheese, all cooked together in one pan to bring out the best of Mexican-inspired tastes with ease and efficiency. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving an effortless weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role, bringing depth, texture, and vibrant color to the casserole. You don’t need anything fancy, just wholesome pantry staples that come together in perfect harmony.
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or 90/10): Provides rich, hearty flavor and the protein base for the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth that enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked): Absorbs all the delicious juices while cooking, giving the casserole a lovely, fluffy texture.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice): Offers tangy brightness and keeps the rice moist.
- 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained): Adds a touch of natural sweetness and pleasing pop in every bite.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Contributes creaminess, fiber, and extra protein.
- 1½ cups beef broth or water: Essential for cooking the rice perfectly and infusing it with savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides that classic Mexican spice warmth without overwhelming heat.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy, smoky undertones that elevate the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky character and adds subtle sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Gives a herbal punch that complements the tomato base.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and highlights all the other tastes beautifully.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, tying the casserole together.
- Optional toppings (fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream): Fresh garnishes that bring brightness, creaminess, and a touch of cool contrast.
How to Make Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and cooking the ground beef. Let it brown nicely, about five to six minutes, which creates those little crispy bits that add amazing flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy, but don’t rinse—those flavorful browned bits are pure gold.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic right into the beef-filled skillet. Sauté everything for a couple of minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant. This is where the heart of your casserole’s flavor starts building gently but surely.
Step 3: Add Spices and Rice
Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, along with salt and pepper. Stir these spices into the mixture so the aromas can bloom. Then, add the uncooked rice and toast it in the pan for one to two minutes. This step roasts the rice slightly, adding a nutty depth and preventing it from becoming mushy.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
It’s time to bring everything together by stirring in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), the corn, black beans, and beef broth. Make sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid as this is what helps it cook evenly and absorb all those fantastic flavors.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through and soak up all the savory broth. You’ll notice the liquid disappearing and the casserole thickening, signaling that it’s almost ready.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese evenly across the top. Cover again for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts into ooey-gooey perfection. For a luxe finish, you can pop it under the broiler briefly to develop a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistible.
Step 7: Serve
Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, creamy diced avocado, or a dollop of cool sour cream if you like. Serve the casserole hot and be ready for the smiles around the table—this dish really shines with its blend of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh toppings turn this casserole into a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Cilantro’s herbaceous brightness cuts through the richness, avocado adds silky creaminess, and sour cream brings a tangy, cooling contrast that complements the warm spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
If you want to make the meal extra special or stretch it for a larger dinner, simple sides like a crisp green salad, warm corn tortillas, or a tangy salsa verde make excellent companions. They balance the heartiness of the casserole with fresh, lively flavors and added textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe in small, oven-safe ramekins for individual portions, or spoon it into halved bell peppers for a colorful, edible bowl. You can even layer it in a casserole dish, topping with extra cheese and baking it a bit longer for a bubbling, golden crust that your guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to lock in freshness and prevent the cheese from drying out. It’s an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, you can freeze the casserole before adding cheese. Place it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with fresh cheese for that melty goodness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm single servings gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly, or use a covered pan on low heat on the stove until hot. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese during reheating helps revive the casserole’s creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey work wonderfully and make the casserole lighter. Just be sure to fully cook the poultry before adding other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for extra beans, diced vegetables like bell peppers, or plant-based meat crumbles for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice can be used but will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly to ensure it cooks through without drying out.
What can I substitute if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika isn’t on hand, regular paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder are great alternatives that still lend smokiness and warmth.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a warm, mild spice level thanks to chili powder and cumin but nothing too hot. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe ticks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing, fuss-free meal that bursts with flavor and comfort. It’s incredibly versatile, packed with good ingredients, and perfect for busy days or relaxing weekends alike. I promise once you try it, it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So grab your skillet and get ready to make dinner magic happen!
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Print
Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole combines ground beef, rice, beans, corn, and spices into a hearty, flavorful dish that simmers to perfection in one skillet. Topped with melted cheese and optional fresh garnishes like cilantro and avocado, it’s a convenient, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1½ cups beef broth or water
Spices
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Optional: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant, which enhances the overall flavor.
- Add Spices and Rice: Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Then stir in the uncooked long-grain rice. Toast the rice and spices together for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, frozen corn, black beans, and beef broth or water. Stir well, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer gently for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts, or optionally place under a broiler briefly to get a golden, bubbly topping.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot as a delicious and filling main dish.
Notes
- Use beef broth for extra flavor, or water for a lighter option.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.
- For spicier casserole, add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
