Some dinners check all the boxes—quick, flavorful, filling, and minimal cleanup—and this One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is exactly that. With savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and bold Mexican-inspired flavors, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels like comfort food with a kick.
I love recipes like this because they’re fuss-free but still deliver big on taste. Everything cooks together in a single pot, so the flavors mingle beautifully while saving you from a pile of dirty dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pot convenience – Less cleanup, more flavor.
- Full meal in one dish – Protein, carbs, and veggies all together.
- Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients.
- Family-approved – Great for both kids and adults.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine seasoned beef, tender rice, and aromatic onions simmered together in a savory, slightly spiced tomato base—finished with melty cheese and your favorite toppings. Every bite is warm, hearty, and just a little addictive.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
Common Add-Ins for Full Flavor:
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1–2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Tools You’ll Need
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion is softened, draining excess fat if necessary.
- Add Veggies & Seasonings
- Stir in bell pepper and garlic (if using), cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add Rice & Liquids
- Stir in uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cheese & Serve
- Remove from heat, sprinkle cheese on top, cover for 2–3 minutes to melt, then serve with desired toppings.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with sliced avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
- Serve with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for scooping.
- Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Tips for the Best Mexican Rice Casserole
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt.
- Keep the lid on while rice cooks to retain steam.
- Add extra broth if rice isn’t fully cooked but liquid is gone.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months—reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice?
Yes—just increase cooking time by 10–15 minutes and add extra broth as needed.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely—swap beef for extra beans or a plant-based meat substitute.
Is it spicy?
Mild as written, but you can add cayenne or extra chili powder for more heat.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is everything a weeknight dinner should be—easy, hearty, and packed with flavor. With endless topping options and minimal cleanup, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
More One-Pot Favorites
- One-Pot Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta
- Cheesy Taco Skillet
- Chicken and Rice Soup
📌 Tried it? Share your photos on Pinterest—I’d love to see your version of this Mexican-inspired comfort food!
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1/6 of recipe): ~390 calories, 17g fat, 39g carbs, 21g protein
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