Best One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

I first made this Mexican rice casserole on a night when I wanted something hearty but didn’t feel like standing over the stove for too long. I had some ground beef, rice, and a can of diced tomatoes in my pantry, so I threw everything into one pot, hoping for the best.

It turned out to be one of the easiest and most delicious meals I had ever made. The beef, rice, and spices all cooked together, soaking up the flavors perfectly. Now, it’s a go-to recipe in my house—simple, filling, and made in just one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash!

Servings	Total
6	35mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I came across a similar recipe online but wanted something even easier. I adjusted the seasonings, added a few extra ingredients for flavor, and turned it into a true one-pot meal. After making it several times and tweaking the recipe, I finally found the perfect combination of ingredients.

Why Mexican Rice Casserole

This casserole is perfect for busy nights when you need a complete meal without spending hours cooking. Everything cooks in one pot, which means minimal cleanup. The flavors are bold and satisfying, and you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients.

What Is Mexican Rice Casserole Made Of?

This dish is made with simple, flavorful ingredients:

• Ground beef – Adds protein and richness.
• Rice – Absorbs all the flavors as it cooks.
• Diced tomatoes & tomato sauce – Create a saucy, flavorful base.
• Black beans & corn – Add texture and heartiness.
• Cheese – Makes it creamy and extra delicious.
• Spices – Chili powder, cumin, and garlic bring the dish to life.

What to Have with Mexican Rice Casserole

This casserole is great on its own, but it pairs well with:

• Tortilla chips – For extra crunch.
• Guacamole – Adds freshness and creaminess.
• Sour cream – Balances the spices.
• A simple salad – A fresh, light side to complement the dish.

Is Mexican Rice Casserole Healthy?

This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and whole grains. To make it healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey and opt for brown rice instead of white. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5–6 minutes).
   • Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Stir in the diced onion and garlic.
   • Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens.
3. Add the Spices and Rice:
   • Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
   • Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat it in the seasonings.
4. Add the Liquids and Beans:
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
   • Add the black beans and corn.
   • Stir everything together.
5. Simmer the Casserole:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
   • Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked.
6. Add the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
   • Cover for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.
7. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro if using.
   • Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Tips

• Use brown rice – If using brown rice, add an extra ½ cup of broth and increase cooking time by 10 minutes.
• Make it spicier – Add jalapeños or more chili powder for extra heat.
• Add extra veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work great in this dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works just as well and makes the dish a little lighter.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Let it cool, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

This one-pot Mexican rice casserole is a delicious, easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. It’s packed with flavor, loaded with protein and veggies, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you serve it for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to become a regular in your home. Try it out and enjoy a comforting homemade meal in just 30 minutes!

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