One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

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Introduction: A One-Pot Wonder You’ll Make Again and Again

If you love dinners that are bold, comforting, and incredibly easy, this One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole will steal your heart. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delivers deep, satisfying flavor with minimal effort. Imagine perfectly seasoned rice simmered in a rich tomato broth, tender meat, creamy beans, sweet corn, and a melty layer of cheese—all cooked together in a single pot. No clutter, no complicated steps, just a warm, hearty meal that feels like a cozy hug after a long day.

This casserole is beloved because it offers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup, and its versatility makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. If you want a recipe that’s easy, budget-friendly, and bursting with Tex-Mex personality, this is it.

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Ingredients (and What Each One Does)

Protein Base

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey – Adds richness, hearty texture, and flavorful fat. Turkey works great for a lighter version.

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced – Builds the savory foundation and enhances aroma.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped – Adds sweetness and colorful freshness.
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with warm, bold flavor.

Rice & Flavoring

• 1 cup long-grain white rice – Absorbs the broth and spices while staying fluffy.
• 1 tbsp chili powder – The core Tex-Mex flavor driver.
• 1 tsp cumin – Adds earthy depth.
• ½ tsp paprika – Provides smokiness and richness.
• Salt & pepper – Balances and enhances every component.

Liquid & Add-Ins

• 1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes – Delivers acidity and moisture.
• 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, rinsed – Adds protein, texture, and fiber.
• 1 cup corn kernels – Offers sweet, juicy bites throughout.
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Helps the rice cook and deepens the overall flavor.

Topping

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese – Creates a gooey, golden topping that ties it all together.
• Fresh cilantro & lime wedges (optional) – Brighten and balance richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey and cook until it’s crispy and browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the vegetables soften and release fragrance.

Step 3: Season the Base

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices, allowing them to toast slightly for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Pour the uncooked long-grain rice into the pot and stir so each grain gets coated with seasoning. This step ensures fluffy, flavorful rice.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Extras

Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and broth. Bring the mixture to a light boil.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender.

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the top with shredded cheese. Cover again for 2 minutes until melted and gooey.

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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

• It’s one pot, meaning less cleanup.
• It’s full of flavor yet extremely simple.
• It’s customizable—use beef, turkey, or make it vegetarian.
• It’s budget-friendly and family-approved.

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Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole

• Rinse your rice for fluffier texture and less stickiness.
• Don’t lift the lid while simmering—steam is key.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for deeper flavor.
• Add jalapeños if you want spice.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack for extra kick.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole with:

• A crisp green salad
• Warm tortillas or tortilla chips
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice
• Sliced avocado or guacamole

These additions balance the rich, cheesy rice and add freshness to the meal.

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Conclusion

This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into a dish that’s bold, satisfying, and unforgettable. With its rich spices, tender rice, hearty protein, and melty cheese, it offers all the comfort you want—without the cleanup you dread. If you’re looking for a delicious, easy, and crowd-pleasing recipe to add to your rotation, this one-pot wonder is guaranteed to deliver.

Let this recipe be your go-to for nights when you want big flavor with little effort—a dish that truly deserves to outrank the rest.

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