Mexican Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion
diced
- 1 red bell pepper
diced
- 3 cloves garlic
minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 ounce
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 diced tomatoes with green chiles
undrained
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can black beans
drained and rinsed, 15 ounce
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro
sliced green onions, sour cream, sliced avocado
Directions
- 1
In a large, deep skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef, onion, and pepper and cook until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- 2
Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, and taco seasoning and cook until the beef is well coated.
- 3
Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, salsa, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.
- 4
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the lid, stir in the black beans and corn, and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- 5
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes so the cheese melts.
- 6
Serve hot with any desired toppings and enjoy!
Mexican Rice Casserole
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 19 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal that comes together quickly? This Mexican Rice Casserole delivers restaurant-worthy taste in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight solution for a satisfying dinner.
What makes this Mexican rice casserole truly special is the harmonious blend of savory lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices from the taco seasoning. It's a satisfying one-dish wonder where long-grain white rice cooks directly in a rich, zesty broth infused with salsa and diced tomatoes with green chiles, absorbing every delicious note. A generous layer of melted Mexican blend cheese then crowns the entire dish, creating an irresistible finish that brings all the flavors together.
Prepare for a dish that is both comforting and exciting, bursting with the warm, familiar flavors of your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes. You'll find tender long-grain white rice perfectly cooked, intertwined with seasoned lean ground beef, sweet red bell pepper, and the savory depth of garlic and onion. The zesty kick from diced tomatoes with green chiles and the bright tang of salsa infuse every spoonful, while hearty black beans and sweet corn add wonderful texture. A melty, golden blanket of shredded Mexican blend cheese ties everything together, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
This versatile Mexican rice casserole welcomes your personal touch. For a vegetarian option, consider swapping the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a mix of extra black beans and corn. You could also experiment with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, or adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like extra heat. Don't have fish sauce? Soy sauce with a splash of lime works in a pinch.
Perfect for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole is a complete meal on its own. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or creamy sliced avocado for an extra pop of freshness and flavor.