Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this flavor-packed Mexican rice casserole that comes together in one pot. It’s the perfect blend of seasoned rice, ground beef, vegetables, and melty cheese that your whole family will love.

Essential Ingredients

The Base:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, any color
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2½ cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 cup frozen corn

The Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

• 2 cups Mexican cheese blend
• Fresh cilantro
• Diced avocado
• Sour cream
• Lime wedges

The Method

Step 1: Building Flavor Base

1. Heat large Dutch oven over medium-high heat
2. Brown ground beef, breaking into small pieces
3. Add onions and peppers once meat is nearly done
4. Cook until vegetables soften
5. Stir in garlic and all seasonings
6. Cook until fragrant

Step 2: Adding Rice & Liquids

1. Add uncooked rice, stir to coat
2. Pour in tomatoes with juice
3. Add beef broth
4. Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer
5. Cover and cook 15 minutes

Step 3: Final Assembly

1. Add beans and corn
2. Continue cooking 5-7 minutes
3. Check rice for doneness
4. Top with cheese
5. Cover until melted

Pro Tips

1. For Perfect Results:

• Don’t peek while rice cooks
• Toast rice slightly before adding liquid
• Let rest 5 minutes before serving
• Use room temperature cheese for better melting

1. Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prep vegetables in advance
• Measure seasonings ahead
• Have all ingredients ready before starting

Easy Variations

1. Protein Options:

• Ground turkey
• Shredded chicken
• Plant-based crumbles

1. Bean Choices:

• Pinto beans
• Red kidney beans
• Mixed beans

1. Rice Options:

• Brown rice (adjust cooking time)
• Mexican rice
• Cauliflower rice for low-carb

Serving Ideas

Serve with:

• Tortilla chips
• Warm flour tortillas
• Fresh salad
• Mexican street corn

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Freeze individual portions
• Reheat with splash of broth
• Store toppings separately

Perfect For:

• Busy weeknights
• Meal prep
• Family dinners
• Potluck gatherings
• Leftover lunches

This versatile casserole is a real crowd-pleaser that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The key is layering the ingredients properly and not disturbing the rice while it cooks. Enjoy this satisfying one-pot meal any night of the week!

Remember:

• Don’t rush the initial browning
• Season in layers
• Let the rice cook undisturbed
• Add fresh toppings just before serving

Your family will love this hearty, flavorful dish that comes together with minimal fuss and cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen!