Description

This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a one-pot meal. It’s packed with long-grain rice, seasoned ground beef (or turkey), black beans, diced tomatoes, and plenty of melted cheese for a comforting and delicious dinner that the whole family will love. With just one pot to clean, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. You can easily customize this casserole with your favorite vegetables and proteins, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, with the right balance of carbs, protein, and fats, it’s a nutritionally complete meal that’s both satisfying and filling.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion diced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup long-grain white rice
1½ cups beef broth
1 can 15 oz corn, drained
1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
½ cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack

Instructions

Cook the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Season and Mix:

Return the skillet to the stove. Add the taco seasoning and garlic powder to the beef, stirring to combine.

Add Ingredients:

Stir in the rice, beef broth, corn, tomato sauce, and salsa. Mix everything thoroughly.

Simmer:

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender.

Add Cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the pan again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.

Serve:

Once the cheese is melted, serve the casserole hot, straight from the pot.

Notes

Customize Your Protein: Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
Make It Spicier: To kick up the heat, add more chili powder or toss in some diced jalapeños. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the top just before serving.
Vegetarian and Vegan: For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables. For a vegan dish, simply leave out the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese.
Rice Options: White rice cooks fastest, but for a more nutritious option, use brown rice or quinoa. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly (brown rice takes longer and needs more liquid).
Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully. Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Cheese Lovers: If you love a cheesy casserole, feel free to add extra cheese on top and even mix some into the casserole for a richer, creamier texture.