One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

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Looking for a quick weeknight dinner that’s hearty, full of flavor, and made in just one pot? This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is your new go-to recipe. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and cheesy goodness, this satisfying dish is a family favorite that’s both budget-friendly and incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot = easy cleanup

• Ready in 30 minutes or less

• Bold, zesty flavors with simple pantry ingredients

• Family-friendly and kid-approved

• Great for meal prep or leftovers

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Ground Beef (1 lb) – The savory base that brings protein and hearty flavor.

• Small Onion (diced) – Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.

• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.

• Taco Seasoning (2 tbsp) – Brings bold, Tex-Mex flavor with spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

• Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds a warm, savory punch.

• Long-Grain White Rice (1 cup) – Soaks up all the delicious liquid and flavor.

• Beef Broth (1½ cups) – Infuses the rice with rich, meaty flavor as it cooks.

• Corn (15 oz can, drained) – Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.

• Tomato Sauce (8 oz) – Gives the dish a saucy, tangy base.

• Salsa (½ cup) – Adds zesty flavor and a touch of heat.

• Shredded Cheese (1 cup) – The cheesy, melty finish that brings it all together.

Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.

• If using brown rice, increase the broth and extend cooking time by 10–15 minutes.

• Make it vegetarian by swapping beef for black beans or lentils.

• Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Customization Ideas

• Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.

• More Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans.

• Toppings: Serve with sour cream, sliced avocado, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.

• Cheese Lovers: Mix in extra cheese before simmering for a creamier casserole.

Storage and Reheating

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

• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant rice?
Instant rice can work, but reduce the cooking time and liquid accordingly—start with 1 cup of broth and adjust as needed.

Is this dish spicy?
It depends on the salsa and taco seasoning used. For a mild version, stick with mild salsa and skip the hot spices.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure you use a large enough pot to handle the increased volume and allow a few extra minutes for cooking

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings

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Description

This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a weeknight winner—hearty, flavorful, and ready in a flash with minimal cleanup. Juicy ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, sweet corn, and tender rice come together in a rich tomato and salsa blend, all topped off with melty cheese. It’s everything you love about taco night in one comforting, cheesy dish.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• 1½ cups beef broth

• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

• 8 oz tomato sauce

• ½ cup salsa (your preferred spice level)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your favorite)

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Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Seasoning

Stir in the taco seasoning and garlic powder until the meat is evenly coated.

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3. Add Remaining Ingredients

Add uncooked rice, beef broth, corn, tomato sauce, and salsa to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.

5. Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Notes

This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a total lifesaver for busy nights. With bold flavors and minimal cleanup, it’s everything you want in a quick dinner recipe. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?