One-Pan Mexican Rice Casserole

This One-Pan Mexican Rice Casserole is the weeknight dinner hero you’ve been waiting for! It’s hearty, cheesy, packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, and comes together in just one skillet—which means minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Loaded with ground beef, tender rice, corn, beans, tomatoes, and melty cheese, this all-in-one meal is a family favorite that doubles as comfort food and meal prep gold. It’s perfect for taco night, potlucks, or any time you want a quick dinner that delivers big flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, green onions, sour cream, diced avocado

Preparation:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

• In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

• Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in Dry Rice and Seasoning

• Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat in the beef mixture. Sprinkle in taco seasoning, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Veggies

• Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, beans, corn, and broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer and Cover

• Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Add Cheese

• Remove the lid, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, and cover again for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Step 7: Serve

• Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot!

Variation:

• Protein Swap: Use ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles
• Add Heat: Stir in chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce
• Add Veggies: Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work well
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the meat and double the beans or add lentils
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute cauliflower rice and reduce broth accordingly

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a main dish with tortilla chips, salsa, and guacamole
• Use as a filling for burritos, tacos, or quesadillas
• Pair with a crisp green salad or Mexican street corn
• Make a taco bowl with shredded lettuce and avocado slices
• Freeze individual portions for easy lunch meal prep

⏱️ Time Overview:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: ~35 minutes

🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 6 servings):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~38g
• Fat: ~20g
• Fiber: ~6g
• Sugar: ~5g
• Sodium: ~650mg

Nutrition may vary depending on cheese, toppings, and meat used.

Conclusion:

One-Pan Mexican Rice Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner—bold in flavor, easy on cleanup, and packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s a complete meal in one skillet, and it’s endlessly customizable to suit your family’s preferences.

From taco night to potlucks to freezer-friendly lunches, this cheesy rice bake brings comfort and convenience to your kitchen. Make it once, and it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation.