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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
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This easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a vibrant, comforting, and effortless dinner that combines bold Mexican flavors in a single pot. Featuring tender rice, smoky spices, savory protein, and melty cheese, it promises a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup — perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a delicious, well-balanced dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (can substitute with beans or tofu for vegetarian option)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 ¾ cups chicken broth (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican seasoning blend (cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

To Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics and Protein: Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic and cook until translucent. Then, add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and fully cooked. Season with the Mexican seasoning blend.
  2. Stir in Rice and Vegetables: Add uncooked rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the pot. Stir well to combine evenly with the meat and aromatics.
  3. Pour in Broth and Bring to Simmer: Pour chicken broth over the mixture and stir. Increase heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and reduce heat to low.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the covered skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
  5. Add Cheese and Broil: Remove the cover, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, and return the casserole to the oven under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.
  • Keep the pot covered during baking to cook the rice perfectly.
  • Adjust the amount of broth as needed depending on the rice type used.
  • Browning meat and aromatics well builds a flavorful base.
  • Add fresh lime juice at the end to brighten and balance flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: One pot, Mexican rice casserole, easy dinner, ground beef, turkey, vegetarian option, baked rice, Mexican flavors, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/one-pot-mexican-rice-casserole/