Baked Mexican Rice Casserole

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Looking for a flavorful, protein-packed, and budget-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare? This Baked Mexican Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-dish dinner. Loaded with seasoned ground beef (or turkey), hearty rice, black beans, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight meals or potluck gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal with minimal cleanup

• High-protein and high-fiber thanks to lean meat and beans

• Family-friendly and kid-approved comfort food

• Customizable with your favorite veggies, proteins, or spice levels

• Perfect for meal prep, leftovers, or freezer meals

Ingredients Breakdown

• Cooked rice: Serves as the hearty, starchy base

• Ground beef or turkey: Adds protein and savory flavor

• Onion & bell pepper: Provide aromatic depth and a slight crunch

• Black beans: Boost fiber and protein, making the dish more filling

• Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture

• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Contribute acidity and mild heat

• Chili powder & cumin: Deliver classic Mexican-inspired spice

• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance

• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts into a bubbly, golden topping

• Chopped cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herby finish

Tips and Tricks

• Use pre-cooked rice to save time—leftover rice works great.

• For extra spice, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.

• Swap in ground chicken or plant-based meat for a different protein.

• Add chopped zucchini or spinach for hidden veggies.

• Make it dairy-free by using vegan cheese.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and double up on beans and veggies.

• Southwest Chicken Casserole: Substitute chicken breast for the beef.

• Creamy Casserole: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking.

• Breakfast Style: Crack a few eggs on top before baking for a breakfast casserole twist.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with tortilla chips, guacamole, or a green salad.

• Pair with refreshing drinks like iced tea, horchata, or lime soda.

• Add a side of salsa or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze the fully baked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

Q: Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?
Absolutely. Brown rice or quinoa adds extra fiber and nutrients—just ensure they are fully cooked before mixing in.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your taco seasoning and canned ingredients are gluten-free, this recipe is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Baked Mexican Rice Casserole

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

This Baked Mexican Rice Casserole is a bold, flavorful one-dish meal loaded with seasoned meat, beans, veggies, and melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, it’s a satisfying, family-friendly dinner that’s as easy to prepare as it is to love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked rice

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

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3. Saute the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper for 4–5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients

Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

5. Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and combine until the mixture is evenly distributed.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out.

7. Add Cheese

Sprinkle the entire surface with shredded Mexican cheese.

8. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

9. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve hot.

Notes

This Baked Mexican Rice Casserole is hearty, delicious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, it’s a no-fail dish that satisfies every time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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