Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

This Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a fiesta in your kitchen! Imagine a delicious combination of ground beef, black beans, corn, and rice, all simmered in a zesty salsa and topped with melted cheese. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a satisfying and festive casserole that’s perfect for a family weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Festive: The combination of ground beef, Mexican spices, and a variety of textures creates a delicious and satisfying casserole that’s bursting with fiesta flavors.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or shredded lettuce. You can also adjust the spice level to your preference.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: The base of the flavorful filling. Use lean ground beef (at least 85/15) to reduce the amount of grease.
• Green bell pepper: Small diced and adds sweetness, color, and a bit of crunch.
• Onion: Small diced and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Taco seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic Mexican flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade taco seasoning.
• Black beans: Drained and rinsed, they add protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
• Corn: Drained and adds sweetness and texture. You can use fresh or frozen corn.
• Beef broth: Adds flavor and moisture to the rice.
• Salsa: Adds a zesty and flavorful base to the casserole.
• Tomato sauce: Adds richness and a deeper tomato flavor.
• Long-grain white rice: A classic and versatile rice that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Make sure to use long-grain white rice and not instant rice.
• Shredded Colby Jack cheese: Adds a cheesy and gooey topping. You can substitute with cheddar cheese or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped and adds a fresh herb flavor as a garnish.
• Your favorite taco toppings: Such as sour cream, guacamole, or shredded lettuce, for serving.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Mexican Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet with deep sides over medium heat, add the ground beef, green bell pepper, and onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and no longer pink and the vegetables are softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Rice

Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, beef broth, salsa, and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the rice and stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot with your favorite taco toppings.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground beef: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning or salsa to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the casserole.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skillet along with the onions and peppers, such as diced zucchini, corn, or chopped spinach.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

This Mexican Rice Casserole is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or extra cheese, for people to customize their bowls.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for scooping and dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Rice Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?
While long-grain white rice is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

2. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as lentils, black beans, or chopped mushrooms.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

4. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and vegetables first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded.

This Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy a delicious and festive meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and one-pan convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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