One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor, this One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is just the ticket. With its combination of ground beef, tender rice, and zesty seasonings, it’s a dish that delivers a complete meal in a single skillet. The best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This casserole is not only hearty and filling but also bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors that everyone in the family will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole:

1 pound 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 🍚
1 1/2 cups beef broth 🍲

1 15-ounce can corn, drained 🌽
8 ounces tomato sauce 🍅
1/2 cup salsa 🌶️

1 cup shredded cheese 🧀

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

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

2. Season the Beef

Add the taco seasoning and garlic powder to the browned beef and onions. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the long grain white rice, beef broth, drained corn, tomato sauce, and salsa. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed in the skillet.

4. Cook the Casserole

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the casserole to simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Melt the Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Your One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is now ready to serve! Spoon it onto plates and enjoy it hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

Rice Selection: For the best texture, use long grain white rice. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice, as they may become mushy.
Beef Substitutes: Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a leaner option.
Extra Veggies: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, black beans, or jalapeños for added flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Options: Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend. For a spicier kick, try pepper jack cheese.
Toppings: Customize your casserole with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.

FAQs for One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Cook the casserole as directed, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in the oven or on the stove.

3. What other proteins can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative can be used as substitutes for ground beef. Adjust the seasonings slightly to match the flavor of your chosen protein.

4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require more cooking time and additional liquid. Brown rice typically takes 40-45 minutes to cook, so you may need to add about 1/2 to 1 cup more broth or water.

5. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and use additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or beans such as black beans or pinto beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole. You can also use a spicier salsa or pepper jack cheese.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are all excellent choices. For a smoky flavor, try using smoked gouda or chipotle-flavored cheese.

8. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips for added crunch.