If you’re craving a comforting, vibrant meal that packs flavor and convenience in every bite, this Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine a bubbling casserole dish where seasoned ground beef, tender rice, hearty black beans, and sweet corn come together in a rich tomato and salsa sauce, all melted under a blanket of gooey Colby Jack cheese. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want something delicious without a complicated cooking process.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient working together. Every element is essential, lending texture, color, or that irresistible Mexican-inspired flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
- Lean ground beef: Brings rich, savory depth as the hearty protein base of the casserole.
- Green bell pepper, small diced: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color to the dish.
- Medium onion, small diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the casserole with warm, fragrant notes.
- Packet taco seasoning: Packs in the classic Mexican spice blend quickly and effortlessly.
- Black beans, drained and rinsed: Offers an earthy, creamy texture plus extra protein and fiber.
- Corn, drained: Gives pops of natural sweetness and golden color.
- Beef broth: Ensures the rice cooks perfectly while boosting richness.
- Salsa (16 ounces): Delivers a tangy tomato base with a hint of spice that ties the dish together.
- Tomato sauce (8 ounces): Thickens and intensifies the sauce’s flavor beautifully.
- Long-grain white rice: Absorbs all those delicious juices, creating a tender and fluffy texture.
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided: Melts into gooey, creamy layers with some reserved for a bubbly topping.
- Fresh chopped cilantro: Sprinkles of herbaceous brightness for serving that elevate every bite.
- Your favorite taco toppings: To personalize your casserole with creamy sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocado.
How to Make Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Veggies
Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart as it browns. Next, toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until the vegetables soften and release their amazing aromas. This step builds the savory foundation of your casserole and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering smells.
Step 2: Add Seasoning, Beans, and Corn
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Then fold in the drained black beans and corn. These ingredients bring hearty textures and a pop of sweetness that beautifully balance the spices. Let everything mingle for a couple of minutes to marry the flavors.
Step 3: Pour in Broth, Salsa, Tomato Sauce, and Rice
Pour in the beef broth, salsa, and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Add the uncooked long-grain white rice, making sure it’s immersed in the liquid. The rice will absorb all those rich flavors while cooking, becoming tender and fluffy in the process. This is where all the ingredients come together to form the delicious base of your casserole.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Rice
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking, giving it a gentle stir halfway through if needed. This slow simmer ensures every grain of rice is infused with bold Mexican flavors.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Once the rice is tender, sprinkle one cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top and gently stir it in until melted and creamy. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish if your pot isn’t oven-safe. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a gorgeous golden crust. Pop it under the broiler or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden. This cheesy finish is the perfect crowning touch!
How to Serve Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped cilantro is an absolute must to sprinkle over each serving, adding a bright herbal note that cuts through the richness. You can also add your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced avocados, or even a squeeze of fresh lime. These garnishes bring freshness and a bit of zing that make every bite feel like a celebration.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully hearty on its own but pairs brilliantly with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or crunchy tortilla chips for scooping. You can also serve it alongside Mexican street corn or a light black bean salad to keep the meal colorful and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch that’s great for dinner parties. Or turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or burrito bowls by repurposing the flavorful rice mixture. The versatility of this Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe means you can enjoy it in many creative, fun ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious casserole, you can easily store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld and deepen, making it perfect for meal prep.
Freezing
If you want to keep this meal longer, it freezes beautifully. Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a comforting meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Adding a splash of broth before reheating helps keep the rice moist and prevents it from drying out. You can also refresh the cheesy topping under the broiler quickly for that melty goodness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used for a lighter version. Just adjust cooking times as needed, and the dish will still be deliciously satisfying.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add extra beans, vegetables, or even plant-based meat substitutes. The taco seasoning and salsa will keep all the bold flavors intact.
What kind of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well. You could try brown rice, but cooking times and liquid amounts will need adjusting.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time without baking?
Definitely! You can cook the rice mixture fully on the stovetop, store it, then add cheese and bake it right before serving for a fresh, bubbly finish.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe has a mild to moderate spiciness thanks to the taco seasoning and salsa, but you can easily adjust heat levels by choosing mild or hot salsa, or adding fresh jalapeños for extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is truly a winning dish that makes weeknight dinners feel special and fuss-free. Its comforting layers of flavor, effortless preparation, and flexibility make it a favorite in my kitchen, and I hope it will be in yours too. Give it a try, gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy the warmth and joy a delicious homemade meal brings.
Print
Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, savory rice, and melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal that comes together quickly in just one pot, it’s a family-friendly recipe that simplifies weeknight dinners while delivering authentic Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, small diced
- 1 medium onion, small diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 16 ounces salsa
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
Beans and Grains
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Cheese and Garnishes
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- Fresh chopped cilantro, for serving
- Your favorite taco toppings
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the diced green bell pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic, cooking until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and vegetables, stirring well to evenly coat. Pour in the salsa, tomato sauce, and beef broth, mixing to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine Beans, Corn, and Rice: Stir in the drained black beans, drained corn, and uncooked long-grain white rice. Make sure everything is well mixed and the rice is submerged in liquid to ensure even cooking.
- Simmer the Casserole: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain steam.
- Add Cheese and Melt: After the rice is cooked, sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pot again and cook on low heat for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Serve with Garnishes: Remove the casserole from heat. Spoon portions onto plates or bowls, topping with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese, fresh chopped cilantro, and any additional taco toppings you prefer. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Adjust the spice level by choosing mild, medium, or hot taco seasoning.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking if you want to reduce excess starch for fluffier texture.
