If you’re looking for a delicious and convenient meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table, then One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the answer. This hearty dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, sweet corn, zesty salsa, and melted cheese into one flavorful casserole. The best part? It all comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this mouthwatering casserole, along with some helpful tips and serving suggestions. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 15-ounce can corn, drained
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If there is excess grease, drain it from the pan.
- Return the skillet to the stove and sprinkle the cooked beef with garlic powder and taco seasoning. Stir well to evenly coat the meat with the seasonings.
- Add the long-grain white rice, beef broth, drained corn, tomato sauce, and salsa to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet again with the lid and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Serve the One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole hot and enjoy the flavorful combination of seasoned beef, tender rice, and cheesy goodness!
Tips
- Feel free to customize the level of spiciness by using mild, medium, or hot salsa and adjusting the amount of taco seasoning to your taste preferences.
- You can add additional vegetables such as diced bell peppers or black beans for added texture and nutrition.
- For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or use a combination of beans and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own but can be accompanied by a few delicious sides to enhance the dining experience. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve the casserole with a side of crisp tortilla chips and fresh guacamole or salsa for a true Mexican-inspired feast.
- Add a refreshing touch with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette.
- For a heartier meal, serve the casserole alongside warm flour tortillas or cornbread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Conclusion
One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. This delicious casserole brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in a convenient one-pot dish. With seasoned ground beef, tender rice, sweet corn, zesty salsa, and melted cheese, every bite is a burst of flavor. Customize the spiciness, add your favorite vegetables, and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this meal. Share this recipe with your loved ones, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more tasty and hassle-free recipes. Happy cooking!