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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together all the classic tastes of Mexican cuisine in one convenient pot. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, offering a hearty meal with minimal cleanup. Here’s how you can make this delicious casserole:

Ingredients:

  • 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
  • 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 a Mexican blend works well)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

  • In a large skillet or pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Cook the beef until it’s browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
  • Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the pan.

2. Add Seasonings and Rice:

  • Sprinkle the taco seasoning and garlic powder over the browned ground beef. Stir well to coat the meat and onions with the spices.
  • Add the uncooked long grain white rice to the pot, stirring it into the beef mixture. Allow the rice to toast slightly for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step enhances the flavor of the rice.

3. Add Liquid Ingredients:

  • Pour in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds flavor to the dish).
  • Add the drained corn, tomato sauce, and salsa to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Simmer the Casserole:

  • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
  • Allow the casserole to cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Be sure to check the casserole occasionally, giving it a stir to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Add the Cheese:

  • Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed, turn off the heat.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the pot again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.

6. Serve:

  • Once the cheese is fully melted, uncover the pot and give the casserole a final stir to mix the cheese throughout the dish.
  • Serve the One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, or extra salsa.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Taco Night: Serve this casserole as a main dish alongside homemade guacamole, tortilla chips, and a fresh salad for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
  • Wrap It Up: Use this casserole as a filling for burritos or soft tacos. Simply spoon the mixture into a warm tortilla, add your favorite toppings, and roll it up.
  • Top It Off: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top of each serving.

Tips and Variations:

  • Protein Alternatives: While ground beef is traditional in this recipe, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor profile.
  • Rice Options: If you prefer brown rice or a different type of grain, adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. Brown rice, for example, will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
  • Veggie Boost: Add additional vegetables to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, black beans, or zucchini, to increase the nutritional content and add more color to the dish.
  • Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack cheese would all add delicious flavor variations.
  • Make It Spicy: If you like your food with a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the casserole.
  • Leftover Friendly: This casserole reheats well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer Friendly: This dish also freezes well. Simply allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Easy and Convenient: Everything is cooked in one pot, which means less mess and fewer dishes to clean up.
  • Customizable: This recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
  • Flavor-Packed: The combination of taco seasoning, salsa, and cheese ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a quick and easy meal that delivers on both taste and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a dish to share at a potluck, this casserole is sure to please. With its bold flavors and comforting texture, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the ease of a one-pot meal while savoring the delicious taste of Mexican cuisine.

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