Flavorful Fiesta: One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with our irresistible One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole. Bursting with bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a family favorite. Packed with ground beef, rice, corn, and a medley of spices, each bite is a fiesta for your taste buds. Best of all, it all comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine and discover the joy of 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

Instructions:

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Add Onion and Seasonings: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the long grain white rice until well combined with the beef and onion mixture. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring that the rice is fully submerged.
Incorporate Corn and Sauce: Add the drained corn and tomato sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Then, spoon in the salsa, distributing it evenly throughout the mixture.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the casserole simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and tender.
Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet once more and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or sliced green onions if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat level of the dish by using mild, medium, or hot salsa according to your preference.
Add-In Ideas: Customize the casserole by adding diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or black olives for extra flavor and texture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

Replace the white rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef to reduce the fat content.
Opt for sugar-free tomato sauce and salsa to keep the carb count low.

Low-Carb Version:

Substitute the white rice with riced cauliflower or broccoli for a low-carb option.
Choose lean ground beef or turkey to minimize the fat content.
Select low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to add volume and nutrition without adding extra carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even chorizo sausage for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I customize the toppings? A: Of course! Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Elevate your dinner table with the zesty flavors of One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole. From its savory ground beef to its aromatic spices and cheesy goodness, this dish is a celebration of vibrant Mexican cuisine. Whether enjoyed for a weeknight dinner or served at a festive gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

With its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this flavorful casserole. Your taste buds will thank you for it!