Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, flavorful meal that brings vibrant colors and comforting textures together, this Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, black beans, and a melty blanket of cheesy goodness, it’s a one-dish wonder that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an impressive yet simple weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers big on taste with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture that keep every bite exciting. From the rich ground beef to the zesty tomatoes with green chiles, here’s what you’ll gather to bring this dish to life.

• 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides savory richness and protein, forming the meaty base of the casserole.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle bite that balances the spices beautifully.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings vibrant color and a mild, fresh crunch to the mix.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic depth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning mix: Packs that bold, familiar Mexican spice blend crucial for authentic taste.
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Offers fluffy texture and soaks up all the savory juices perfectly.
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds earthiness and fiber, plus creamy bites throughout.
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels: Brings a slight sweetness and pop of color that livens the casserole.
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained: Adds moisture, acidity, and a little kick without overpowering.
• 1 cup salsa: Brings an extra layer of spice and tangy tomato flavor to tie everything together.
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and infuses subtle savory notes as it cooks.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts on top to add gooey, creamy, cheesy perfection.
• Optional toppings: Chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sour cream, and sliced avocado for fresh bursts and creamy contrasts.

How to Make Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large deep skillet over medium-high heat and cooking the lean ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink. Be sure to break it up into small pieces so it cooks evenly. When done, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from feeling oily.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Add Seasoning

To the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies soften and release their sweet fragrance. Then sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and stir well, letting the spices toast briefly for maximum flavor depth.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Other Ingredients

Next, stir in the uncooked rice, black beans, frozen corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles (including the juice), salsa, and chicken broth. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and coated in the vibrant sauce.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Bring this colorful mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet tightly. Let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavorful broth and become tender without sticking to the pan.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Prepare to Serve

Once the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it stand for about 5 minutes so the cheese melts into a luscious, gooey layer that brings the casserole all together.

How to Serve Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your serving by adding chopped cilantro and sliced green onions for freshness and a pop of green. A dollop of sour cream provides creamy cooling contrast, while sliced avocado adds buttery richness that feels indulgent but balanced.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some warm corn tortillas can round out the experience beautifully. Light sides help balance the richness, keeping the meal fresh and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation. Alternatively, pack leftovers into tortilla wraps or stuff bell peppers for a fun twist on the classic. It’s a versatile dish that shines in many forms.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Simply cool it completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the rice moist. Cover while reheating to help the cheese soften again, restoring that just-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and add extra beans or cooked vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian version.

What type of rice works best for this casserole?

Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and stays fluffy. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice as they may become mushy during the simmering process.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Fresh tomatoes can be used, but keep in mind fresh chiles provide the unique heat and flavor found in canned diced tomatoes with green chiles. You might need to add some fresh diced chiles or mild jalapeños to mimic that taste.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spice mainly comes from the taco seasoning and the canned tomatoes with green chiles, which offer a mild kick. If you prefer milder flavors, use a mild taco seasoning and remove the chiles.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Be sure to keep the skillet covered while simmering to trap steam that cooks the rice properly. Using low-sodium broth keeps the moisture balanced, and adding cheese on top helps retain creaminess as it melts.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is a shining example of comfort food made exciting with simple ingredients and big flavors. Once you try it, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up a meal that satisfies both your hunger and your craving for something delicious and colorful. Give it a go—your family will thank you!

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