Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

No, instant rice isn't recommended as it has different cooking times and liquid requirements. The recipe is designed for regular long-grain white rice, which absorbs flavors better and maintains a better texture in this dish.

What if I don't have taco seasoning on hand?

You can easily make your own by combining 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon each of cumin and paprika, 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon each of oregano and black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne (optional). This will give you about the amount needed for one packet.

Can I make this dish less spicy for my family?

Absolutely! Use mild salsa and reduce or eliminate any hot spices in your taco seasoning. Serving the more intense toppings like jalapeños on the side lets each person adjust their own heat level.

How do I know when the rice is perfectly cooked?

The rice should be tender with no hard center when bitten, but still maintain distinct grains without becoming mushy. Most of the liquid should be absorbed, but the dish should still be moist, not dry.

Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

Name: Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 green bell pepper, small diced; 1 medium onion, small diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can corn, drained; 2 cups beef broth; 16 ounces salsa; 8 ounces tomato sauce; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided; Fresh chopped cilantro for serving; Your favorite taco toppings

Description

Savor a flavorful and satisfying one-pot Mexican rice casserole that’s brimming with ground beef, veggies, black beans, and gooey cheese, all perfectly seasoned with taco spices. This hearty dish comes together effortlessly in a single skillet, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Customize it with your favorite taco toppings for a dish the whole family will love!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Protein and Vegetables

1 pound lean ground beef
1 green bell pepper, small diced
1 medium onion, small diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Seasoning

1 packet taco seasoning

Canned and Pantry Staples

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can corn, drained
2 cups beef broth
16 ounces salsa
8 ounces tomato sauce
1 cup long-grain white rice

Toppings

2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
Fresh chopped cilantro for serving
Your favorite taco toppings

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Instructions

Cook Ground Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet with deep sides, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced green bell pepper, and onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess liquid. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring until fragrant.
Season the Meat Mixture
Add the taco seasoning to the skillet and stir thoroughly, coating the beef and vegetables evenly.
Incorporate Canned Ingredients
Stir in the black beans, corn, beef broth, salsa, and tomato sauce, ensuring everything is combined. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the Rice and Simmer
Add the long-grain white rice and gently stir it in. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer the dish for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally (about every 10 minutes) to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. The dish is ready when the rice is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. The mixture will thicken as it cools.
Incorporate and Melt Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat. Add half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese and thoroughly stir it in to create a creamy texture. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top, cover, and allow it to melt for a few minutes.
Garnish and Serve
Top the casserole with fresh chopped cilantro and serve warm with your favorite taco toppings.

Notes

Use long-grain white rice for the best texture; alternatives may affect cooking time and consistency.
Colby Jack cheese is recommended, but you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
For additional flavor, try topping with guacamole, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce.
This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze.
Using lean ground beef (85/15) helps reduce excess grease.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 435
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 72mg