Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe for Family Dinners

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty one pot Mexican rice casserole that promises a flavor explosion in every bite.

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delicious solutions that satisfy hungry stomachs.

Packed with zesty spices and wholesome ingredients, this dish brings the warmth of traditional Mexican cuisine directly to your table.

The blend of tender rice, savory proteins, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.

Colorful bell peppers and robust seasonings add depth and excitement to this simple yet remarkable meal.

Families and friends will gather around, eager to devour this comforting and vibrant casserole that turns an ordinary evening into a delectable celebration.

Prepare to be transported to a world of culinary delight with just one skillet.

Ingredients for Flavorful Mexican Rice Casserole

• Ground Beef: A juicy and flavorful protein that gives the dish its hearty base.
• Rice: A fluffy and filling grain that serves as the perfect foundation for this casserole.
• Taco Seasoning: A zesty blend that brings authentic Mexican flavor to the dish.

• Beef Broth, Tomato Sauce, Salsa: A trio of liquids that create a rich and tangy cooking sauce.

• Corn, Garlic Powder: Corn adds sweet crunch while garlic powder brings a subtle aromatic touch.
• Shredded Cheese: A melty topping that adds creamy richness to the casserole.

• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.

How to Cook Mexican Rice Casserole in One Pot

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the ground beef until it turns a rich brown color, breaking it into small crumbles.

Sprinkle salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish light and delicious.

Step 2: Spice Up the Beef

• Taco seasoning
• Garlic powder

Stir the seasonings into the beef thoroughly, ensuring every bit gets coated with zesty flavors.

Step 3: Create the One-Pot Magic

• Uncooked rice
• Beef broth
• Corn
• Tomato sauce
• Salsa

Mix everything together until well blended, creating a vibrant and colorful mixture.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil.

Immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.

Let it simmer quietly for 18-20 minutes.

The rice will absorb all the delicious flavors and become tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Cheese Finale

Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.

Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt into a gooey, golden blanket for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the hot, cheesy Mexican rice casserole directly from the skillet onto plates.

The dish is ready to delight your taste buds with its rich, comforting flavors.

Tips to Make Your Mexican Rice Casserole Shine

• Pat ground beef dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and enhance flavor development.
• Adjust taco seasoning intensity by using mild, medium, or hot varieties to match personal heat preferences.
• Use long-grain white rice for best texture; brown rice requires longer cooking time and additional liquid.
• Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans for a protein-packed meat-free alternative.
• Let casserole rest for 2-3 minutes after adding cheese to ensure smooth, even melting and optimal gooey consistency.

Storing and Reheating Mexican Rice Casserole Leftovers

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled casserole to freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Prevent freezer burn by removing excess air.
• Warm portions in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of beef broth to restore moisture and prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Place individual servings in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to maintain texture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.

Great Pairings for One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

• Zesty Citrus Salad: Toss a light, tangy salad with lime, orange segments, and cilantro to cut through the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Fresh Guacamole Topping: Dollop creamy, homemade guacamole on top for added freshness and a cool contrast to the warm casserole.
• Mexican Cerveza Pairing: Crack open a cold, crisp Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo to complement the spicy, bold flavors of the dish.
• Cooling Horchata Drink: Serve a refreshing glass of horchata to balance the heat and provide a smooth, sweet counterpoint to the savory casserole.

Flavor Options to Switch Up Mexican Rice Casserole

• Vegetarian Mexican Rice Casserole: Replace ground beef with black beans or lentils for a protein-packed meatless version that maintains the same bold flavors and textures.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free taco seasoning and ensure all ingredients like broth and salsa are certified gluten-free for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Low-Carb Mexican Cauliflower Casserole: Swap rice with riced cauliflower to create a lower-carbohydrate alternative that still delivers authentic Mexican-inspired taste and nutritional value.
• Spicy Chicken Mexican Rice Skillet: Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken breast for a leaner protein option that provides a different yet equally delicious meal experience.

FAQs

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid and cooking time. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so increase the beef broth by 1/4 cup and extend the simmering time to 35-40 minutes.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the salsa and taco seasoning you use. For a milder version, choose a mild salsa and low-sodium taco seasoning. If you want more heat, opt for a medium or hot salsa and spicy taco seasoning.

• Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat, or use black beans or lentils as a protein substitute. Keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a delicious vegetarian version.

• What if I don't have beef broth?

You can substitute chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a bouillon cube. Each option will slightly alter the flavor, but the dish will still be tasty and satisfying.

What Makes Mexican Rice Casserole a One-Pot Favorite

• Quick Family Feast: Whip up a delicious, hearty meal that satisfies hungry family members with its bold, zesty Mexican-inspired taste.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals, this dish appeals to both kids and adults with its comforting and exciting flavors.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Create a filling and nutritious meal using affordable ingredients that stretch your grocery budget without compromising on taste.

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Mexican rice casserole combines zesty flavors and comforting textures in a single skillet. Packed with spices, protein, and melted cheese, this dish delivers a satisfying meal that brings Mexican-inspired cuisine directly to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 lb (454 g) ground beef

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 can 15 oz (425 g) corn, drained
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Starches, Liquids, and Toppings:

• 1 cup (190 g) long-grain white rice
• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) beef broth
• 1 can 8 oz (227 g) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) salsa
• 1 cup (113 g) shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

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Instructions

1. Brown ground beef in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring meat is thoroughly cooked and crumbled.
2. Eliminate excess fat by carefully draining the skillet, preserving the meat’s rich flavor.
3. Reintroduce the skillet to the stovetop and infuse the beef with robust taco seasoning and aromatic garlic powder, mixing until evenly distributed.
4. Create a hearty one-pot meal by integrating uncooked rice, savory beef broth, sweet corn kernels, tangy tomato sauce, and zesty salsa into the seasoned meat.
5. Ignite the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce heat to a gentle simmer, covering the skillet to allow ingredients to meld and rice to absorb liquid.
6. Maintain low heat for 18-20 minutes, periodically checking rice tenderness and liquid absorption to prevent overcooking.
7. Transform the dish by cascading shredded cheese across the surface, creating a molten blanket of creamy goodness.
8. Allow residual heat to gently melt the cheese for 2-3 minutes, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish.
9. Serve the steaming casserole directly from the skillet, showcasing the vibrant, layered flavors of this Mexican-inspired one-pot wonder.

Notes

• Customize meat options by swapping ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for dietary preferences.
• Toast rice in skillet before adding liquids to enhance nutty flavor and prevent clumping during cooking.
• Control spice levels by adjusting taco seasoning amount or using mild salsa for sensitive palates.
• Reduce sodium by choosing low-sodium broth and homemade taco seasoning blend.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg