If you are craving a cozy and colorful dinner that brings all the vibrant flavors of Mexico into one comforting dish, you are going to love this One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s an easy, all-in-one meal that combines juicy ground beef, zesty spices, wholesome beans, sweet corn, and fluffy rice, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This casserole is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a simple, no-fuss recipe that saves time and cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight winner for busy households or anytime you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, bringing a unique depth of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish both satisfying and visually delightful. The beauty of the One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of these staple pantry and fresh ingredients.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a smooth richness to the base.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and a gentle crunch when cooked until translucent.
- Garlic: Brings a fragrant warmth that wakes up all the flavors.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein foundation that makes the casserole filling and delicious.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the other flavors perfectly.
- Ground cumin and chili powder: Key spices that introduce the signature smoky, earthy Mexican flavor.
- Black beans: A creamy, protein-packed addition that balances the meat’s richness.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds moisture, acidity, and a burst of fresh tomato taste.
- Corn kernels: Provide a natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- Long-grain white rice: The comforting carb base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors as it cooks.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and ensures the rice cooks perfectly tender.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a luscious layer on top, adding creaminess and a sharp, tangy bite.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Brightens the dish with a fresh herbaceous note.
- Lime wedges: For a zesty squeeze of citrus that livens every bite.
How to Make One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and sweet-smelling, which usually takes about 3 minutes. This step builds a flavorful foundation you’ll love.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up gently with your spoon. Cook until it’s evenly browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, be sure to drain any excess fat so your casserole doesn’t turn greasy but stays perfectly balanced and flavorful.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and chili powder. Stir and cook for about one minute. This allows the spices to release their aromas and infuse the beef with a deep, smoky, and slightly spicy kick that’s totally irresistible.
Step 4: Combine the Main Ingredients
Now, add the black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, corn kernels, the rice, and chicken broth directly into the skillet. Stir everything well to mix the ingredients evenly. This is where the magic happens as the rice will soak up all the juices, creating a perfectly flavored base.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the delicious broth. This step requires patience, but it will reward you with a perfectly cooked, moist casserole.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Once the rice is done, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top. Cover it back up and let the residual heat melt the cheese, creating that lovely, gooey layer that takes this dish to the next level.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro if you like that refreshing herbal twist, and serve with lime wedges on the side. The bright citrus adds a wonderful contrast to the savory casserole’s richness.
How to Serve One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream instantly lifts this dish with color and extra layers of flavor. Don’t underestimate how a simple squeeze of lime can turn your bite into a zesty celebration. Fresh avocado slices or diced jalapeños also work beautifully as topping options.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round out your spread, consider pairing it with a simple side salad of crisp greens dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette, or some crunchy tortilla chips to scoop up the cheesy goodness. A bowl of Mexican street corn (elote) or a side of refried beans also complements this casserole wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe right in the skillet on your table, so everyone can help themselves. Alternatively, spoon portions into individual ramekins and garnish each with a wedge of lime and a sprig of cilantro for a charming presentation. You can also turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or taco fillings to mix things up creatively.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before covering to preserve the flavors and textures.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. To avoid sogginess, slightly undercook the rice before freezing and add cheese only when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a covered skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back creaminess and prevent drying out. Add extra cheese on top mid-reheat for that melted cheesy bliss.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative and still absorbs the spices beautifully. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and season well for maximum flavor.
Is this casserole spicy?
The level of heat is mild to moderate thanks to the chili powder, which lends warmth without overpowering heat. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more chili powder or incorporating jalapeños if you prefer a spicier kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You might also want to add extra beans or sautéed vegetables to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What type of rice is best for this casserole?
Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly in the liquid and retains a fluffy texture. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice as it may become mushy during the simmering process.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to the simmering step, refrigerate it, and then cook it fresh when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if your ingredients are chilled.
Final Thoughts
This One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and such a joy to make. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion but comes together effortlessly with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Give it a try for a vibrant, comforting meal that brings bold Mexican flavors and cozy goodness all in one pan. Once you taste it, it might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner to share with friends and family alike!
Print
One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A hearty and flavorful One-Skillet Mexican Rice Casserole featuring ground beef, black beans, corn, and tender rice cooked together with aromatic spices. This easy one-pan meal is topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole leaner.
- Add Spices: Stir in the salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and chili powder. Cook for another minute to let the spices release their flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, corn kernels, rice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir all ingredients well to combine evenly.
- Simmer the Casserole: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Melt the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it rest for about 5 minutes so the cheese melts thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top if desired, and serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If you prefer spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños when adding spices.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully on the stovetop or microwave.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
