One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

Looking for a dish that’s hearty, deeply flavorful, and practically cooks itself? This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is your answer for busy weeknights. Everything goes into a single skillet, creating a comforting, cheesy meal in just about 20 minutes, with no need for complicated steps or a pile of dirty dishes. The flavors are exactly what you crave after a long day: zesty beef, fluffy rice, sweet corn, and melty cheese, all brought together with classic Mexican spices and a pop of salsa. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a delicious meal that makes great leftovers, this easy casserole should be on regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in this recipe pulls its weight, bringing flavor, texture, and heartiness:

• Ground Beef: The main protein; gives a rich, savory base and holds up well to seasonings. Try to use lean ground beef for less grease.
• Small Onion, Diced: Adds a sweet and aromatic undertone; don’t skip it if you want a deeper flavor!
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
• Taco Seasoning: The secret to that unmistakable Tex-Mex flavor; use your favorite blend or make your own for extra freshness.
• Garlic Powder: Boosts the savory, umami notes—it beautifully ties everything together.
• White Rice: Soaks up all the flavors and gives the dish its comforting, hearty texture. Short or long-grain both work, but avoid instant rice—it can get mushy.
• Beef Broth: Adds depth and helps the rice cook up tender and delicious.
• Corn (canned, drained): Brings a touch of sweetness and color to the casserole.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds body and a mild, tangy flavor that binds the casserole.
• Salsa: Offers a punch of brightness and spice—use your favorite mild or spicy brand.
• Shredded Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection on top; cheddar or a Mexican blend are both fantastic choices.

Tip: Have some fresh cilantro, green onion, or avocado? They make great garnishes!

Variations

One of the joys of this recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Go Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for a can of drained black beans or pinto beans. You’ll still get that hearty feel, plus extra fiber.
• Change the Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu work just as well—use what you love or have on hand.
• Add Veggies: Bell peppers, jalapeños, or zucchini can be sautéed with the onion for bonus color and nutrition.
• Switch the Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little heat, or colby if you want a slightly different melt and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add extra chili powder or chopped chipotle peppers in adobo for a real kick.

How to Make One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onion

Heat a large skillet over medium. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and crumbly. Toss in diced onion and let it soften, releasing that delicious aroma.

Step 2: Season Everything

Sprinkle the browned beef and onions with taco seasoning and garlic powder. Stir until everything is nicely coated—this is where the magic starts!

Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the white rice, beef broth, tomato sauce, and salsa. All those flavors get to know each other right here in the pan.

Step 4: Add the Corn

Drain the corn and stir it in. Its sweetness balances out the spices perfectly.

Step 5: Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture up to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes. The rice will drink up those flavors and become wonderfully tender.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Melt

Sprinkle a generous layer of cheese over the top, cover again, and let it melt into gooey goodness—just 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Turn off the heat, let the casserole sit for a couple minutes, and then dig in. Every bite has that perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, beefy flavor.

How to Serve

This casserole is a meal by itself, but pairing can turn it into a true feast:

Fresh Toppings: Top with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra burst of freshness.

Side Salad: A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully, offering crunch and contrast.

Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the cheesy goodness or use chips as a hearty side.

Wrap It Up: Spoon the casserole into warm flour tortillas for quick burritos or tacos.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, and it reheats beautifully.

Freezing

Let the casserole cool, then freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or water if it seems dry. Top with a little extra cheese as it reheats to bring back that melty magic.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again—it’s satisfying, speedy, and absolutely loaded with flavor. There’s so much room to adapt it to your personal tastes or what’s in your pantry, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Whether you’re cooking for a full table or looking forward to leftovers, this casserole promises comfort and ease every time you make it. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the delicious simplicity!

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