Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

When you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor, this Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the perfect solution. Combining seasoned ground beef, rice, corn, and cheese, this dish offers a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Ready in just 40 minutes, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting meal. Each serving contains approximately 400 kcal, making it a hearty yet balanced option.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe yields 6 servings. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• ½ cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese

How to Make Easy

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

• In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
• Season with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.

2. Add Rice and Liquids:

• Add the long grain white rice to the pot, stirring to coat the rice with the beef mixture.
• Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and salsa. Stir to combine.

3. Cook the Rice:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
• Stir in the drained corn and adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Add Cheese and Serve:

• Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole. Cover and let sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
• Serve warm, garnished with additional salsa or chopped cilantro if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Ground Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
• Rice: Rinse the rice before adding it to the pot to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting quality.

Cooking Tips

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and salsa to control the spice level. Add some diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
• Toppings: Top with sour cream, guacamole, or sliced avocado for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole, a fresh green salad, or a bowl of refried beans.
• Beverage Pairing: Pair with a cold beer, margarita, or a refreshing glass of iced tea.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 22g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 3g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Similar Recipes to Try

If you love this Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole, you might enjoy these other delicious and easy meals:

1. One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta: A flavorful pasta dish with chicken, bell peppers, and a creamy fajita sauce.

2. Mexican Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with a seasoned rice and beef mixture, topped with cheese and baked to perfection.

3. Taco Casserole: A layered casserole with seasoned ground beef, tortillas, and plenty of cheese, baked until bubbly.

4. Beef and Bean Enchilada Casserole: Layers of tortillas, beef, beans, and cheese, baked in a savory enchilada sauce.

5. Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowls: A quick and easy meal with seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and all your favorite burrito toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

• Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount as brown rice takes longer to cook.

2. What if I don’t have beef broth?

• You can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water in a pinch.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the cheese. Cover and refrigerate, then bake and add cheese when ready to serve.

4. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pot?

• Stir the rice frequently during the first few minutes of cooking and ensure the heat is reduced to low once it starts to simmer.

5. Is this casserole spicy?

• The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and salsa used. Adjust these ingredients to your preferred level of heat.

Conclusion

Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a delicious and convenient meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a quick and satisfying dinner. With its combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, corn, and cheese, this casserole is packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and happy cooking!

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