One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

Imagine a dish that brings all the vibrant flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant straight to your kitchen, with minimal cleanup required. Meet the One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole, a delightful blend of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, sweet corn, and bold taco spices. This comforting meal is not only quick and easy to prepare but also an absolute crowd-pleaser that your family will request time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this casserole for its simplicity and convenience. Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights. The combination of ingredients creates a hearty dish packed with flavor, and the melty cheese topping is simply irresistible.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet with a lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 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

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion with a pinch of salt and pepper until the beef is no longer pink. If necessary, drain any excess grease.
2. Return the skillet to the stove and season the beef with garlic powder and taco seasoning.
3. Stir in the rice, beef broth, corn, tomato sauce, and salsa.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
5. Sprinkle the cheese over the top, cover again, and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to use long grain white rice for the best texture.
• If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• For a richer flavor, you can substitute chicken broth for beef broth.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize this casserole by adding black beans or bell peppers. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of simmering the rice. Once cooled, refrigerate it and finish cooking just before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. I hope you try this One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole and enjoy it as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try in the comments below. Happy cooking!