Quick Description
This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, flavor-packed meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, tomato sauce, corn, and salsa all cooked together in one pan. It’s comforting, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients List
- 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 (uncooked)
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
-
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess grease. -
Season
Add salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir well. -
Add Rice & Liquids
Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, tomato sauce, salsa, and corn. -
Simmer
Bring mixture to a gentle boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 18–22 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. -
Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover for 2–3 minutes until melted. -
Serve
Remove from heat, let rest 5 minutes, then serve.
Nutrition (per serving – approx.)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Benefits
- One pot meal
- High in protein
- Budget friendly
- Family approved
- Easy cleanup
- Customizable spice level
Additional Notes
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Use low-sodium broth for less salt.
- Add extra cheese if you love it cheesy.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (check taco seasoning)
- Dairy-Free Option: Yes (omit cheese)
Brief Introduction
This dish combines classic Mexican flavors with the comfort of a casserole. Everything cooks together in one pan, making dinner simple, fast, and incredibly satisfying.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Brown beef and onion
- Season well
- Add rice and liquids
- Simmer until tender
- Melt cheese
- Serve hot
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Ground beef: Can replace with turkey or chicken
- Rice: Brown rice works but needs more liquid & time
- Salsa: Mild or spicy
- Cheese: Cheddar, Mexican blend, or mozzarella
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Add black beans
- Add diced bell peppers
- Use spicy taco seasoning
- Top with jalapeños
Serve with
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Tortilla chips
- Side salad
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: up to 4 days
- Freeze: up to 2 months
- Reheat: microwave or stovetop
FAQs
Can I use instant rice?
Yes, reduce liquid slightly and cooking time.
Can I make it spicier?
Add chili powder, hot salsa, or jalapeños.
Is it meal-prep friendly?
Absolutely.
Optional Personal Story
This is one of my favorite “lazy night” meals. Everything cooks in one pan and the flavors taste even better the next day.
