If you’re craving a dish that wraps up all the vibrant, comforting flavors of a fiesta in one cozy bite, the Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole combines tender, seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, hearty beans, and perfectly cooked rice all bubbling together with melty Colby Jack cheese and a zingy salsa tomato base. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Trust me, this dish will quickly become your go-to if you love bold flavors with a comforting, homey vibe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is a breeze because it uses simple yet essential ingredients that each add something special to the dish. From the lean ground beef that brings savory richness to the black beans and corn giving texture and color, every component works in harmony to create a crowd-pleasing casserole.
- Lean ground beef (1 pound): Choose 85/15 for optimal flavor without too much fat.
- Green bell pepper (1 small, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful fresh crunch.
- Medium onion (1, diced): Builds a savory base with classic aromatic depth.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Essential for that punch of fragrant, warm spice.
- Taco seasoning (1 packet): The secret magic mix that spices everything perfectly.
- Black beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): Adds creaminess and boosts protein.
- Corn (1 can, 15 oz, drained): Sweet burst of color and texture.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Keeps rice tender and infuses extra meaty flavor.
- Salsa (1 jar, 16 oz): Brightens the dish with tangy tomato and pepper notes.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Provides richness and body to the sauce.
- Long-grain white rice (1 cup): The filling grain base that soaks up all those fabulous flavors.
- Colby Jack cheese (2 cups, shredded, divided): Melts beautifully for creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Fresh chopped cilantro: A fragrant, fresh garnish that elevates every bite.
- Your favorite taco toppings: Think sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños for added fun.
How to Make Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating a large skillet with deep sides over medium heat. Add your lean ground beef, diced green bell pepper, and onion. Cook until the meat is nicely browned and the veggies have softened, then carefully drain off any excess grease so your casserole isn’t too oily. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until you can smell that irresistible garlicky aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning and Mix Well
Sprinkle in the packet of taco seasoning and give everything a good stir. This is where the dish really starts to develop its signature flavor—bold, spicy, and perfectly balanced. Let the seasoning coat the meat and veggies evenly to create a mouthwatering base for the rice and other ingredients.
Step 3: Simmer with Beans, Corn, Broth, Salsa, and Tomato Sauce
Next, pour in the drained black beans and corn along with the beef broth, salsa, and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil to combine all those flavors beautifully. It’s like layering magic in your skillet as the colors and scents meld together, setting the stage for the rice to soak up every last bit of deliciousness.
Step 4: Cook the Rice Until Tender
Stir in the long-grain white rice, then reduce the heat to low. Cover your skillet and let everything gently simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking process is crucial; it allows the rice to absorb the flavorful liquid while becoming perfectly tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Let It Melt
When the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese to make the casserole super creamy and cheesy throughout. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover once more, and let it melt into a golden, gooey topping that’s simply irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the casserole for a burst of herbal freshness. Serve it up with your favorite taco toppings to customize each portion exactly how you like it. Whether it’s a dollop of sour cream, a few slices of avocado, or some extra jalapeños for heat, this casserole is ready to be enjoyed with your personal flair.
How to Serve Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is such a fun way to add freshness and personality. Fresh cilantro brings a bright, vibrant note that balances the richness of the cheese and beef, while dollops of sour cream cool down the spice. Don’t hesitate to add sliced green onions or a wedge of lime for a zesty finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty and filling on its own, but pairing it with crisp green salads, crunchy tortilla chips, or even roasted veggies like zucchini or poblano peppers will round out your meal with extra texture and nutrition. A simple guacamole or pico de gallo on the side ups the flavor game with fresh, zesty bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not take presentations up a notch? Serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets for a rustic touch or bake the casserole in a large casserole dish and scoop out generous squares family-style. If you’re hosting a casual gathering, consider warming soft flour tortillas alongside to turn each serving into a flavorful taco wrap or burrito bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe makes excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as they meld overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, so you can make it ahead for busy weeknights. Divide cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water before reheating if the rice seems dry to restore that fresh-from-the-skillet texture and keep every bite moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work well in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked and seasoned.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra beans or chopped veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What kind of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy. You could try brown rice if you don’t mind a longer cooking time, but make sure to adjust the liquid and simmer time accordingly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Definitely! The Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it a day before, refrigerate, then reheat gently before serving. It’s a time-saver without sacrificing flavor.
What should I serve to make it a complete meal?
Adding a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side will give you a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget your favorite taco toppings—they add crunch, creaminess, or heat that balances the richness of the casserole.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress without fuss, this Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is a total winner. It’s hearty, flavorful, comforting, and comes together with ease—plus the leftovers only get better with time. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it your own. Trust me, this dish is the one you’ll want to reach for again and again whenever you crave a little taste of home with a Mexican-inspired twist.
Print
Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This hearty Mexican Rice Casserole features seasoned ground beef, colorful vegetables, beans, and rice all simmered together in a flavorful salsa and tomato sauce base. Topped with melted Colby Jack cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s a comforting, all-in-one dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (at least 85/15 lean)
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (16 ounce) jar salsa
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
Garnishes and Toppings
- Fresh chopped cilantro, for serving
- Your favorite taco toppings (such as sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, or sliced olives)
Instructions
- Brown Beef and Vegetables: In a large deep skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with diced green bell pepper and onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables have softened. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Then add the packet of taco seasoning, mixing thoroughly to evenly coat everything with the spices.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Add black beans, corn, beef broth, salsa, and tomato sauce into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the long-grain white rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer gently for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally during this time to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese into the mixture until incorporated. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet and allow the residual heat to melt the cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the casserole and serve alongside your favorite taco toppings like sour cream or sliced jalapeños for added flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the sodium content.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- You can substitute Colby Jack cheese with a Mexican blend or cheddar cheese.
- Ensure the rice is white long-grain for best texture; brown rice will require longer cooking time and more liquid.
