One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that marries convenience with robust flavors, making it a favorite for busy families and anyone who enjoys a touch of Mexican cuisine at home. This dish is an all-in-one meal, combining ground beef, rice, corn, and classic Mexican seasonings, all cooked together in a single pot. The result is a warm, cheesy, and satisfying casserole that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
The appeal of this casserole lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity and efficiency. By using just one pot, you save on cleanup time without sacrificing flavor. The dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a reliable and tasty meal. Its versatility allows for numerous variations and substitutions, making it easy to adapt to different dietary needs and preferences.
Recipe for One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and 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 oz) can corn, drained
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is browned. Season with salt and pepper during cooking. Once browned, drain any excess grease.
- Season and Mix: Return the pan to the stove. Add the garlic powder and taco seasoning to the beef, stirring well to combine.
- Add Ingredients: Incorporate the rice, beef broth, corn, tomato sauce, and salsa into the pan. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the pan again and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted, the casserole is ready to be served. Enjoy it hot, straight from the pot.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this one-pot wonder is its adaptability. Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
Protein Substitutes:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu to make the dish vegetarian. Additionally, adding more beans such as black beans or pinto beans can enhance the protein content.
- Seafood Twist: Shrimp can be a great alternative, offering a delightful twist to the traditional recipe.
Rice Alternatives:
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, use brown rice. Note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice. Since cauliflower rice cooks faster, add it later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
Vegetable Additions:
- Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Zucchini or Squash: These can be diced and added to the mixture, providing a subtle sweetness and additional texture.
- Spinach or Kale: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a nutrient boost.
Spice Level:
- Mild: For a milder version, reduce the amount of taco seasoning or use a mild variety.
- Spicy: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or using a spicy salsa.
Cheese Options:
- Cheddar and Monterey Jack: Combine different cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Pepper Jack: Use pepper jack cheese for an added kick of spice.
- Vegan Cheese: Substitute with a plant-based cheese for a vegan-friendly dish.
Liquid Substitutions:
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of beef broth to change the flavor profile.
- Tomato Juice: For a richer tomato flavor, replace some of the broth with tomato juice.
Additional Toppings:
- Avocado: Fresh avocado slices or guacamole can add a creamy texture.
- Cilantro: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can provide a cool contrast to the warm, spicy casserole.
- Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips on top add a delightful crunch.
Conclusion
One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a versatile canvas that invites creativity and personalization. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish to impress at a potluck, or a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this casserole fits the bill. Its ease of preparation and minimal cleanup make it an excellent choice for busy cooks, while its rich, robust flavors ensure it remains a family favorite. With endless possibilities for variations and substitutions, you can tailor it to meet your dietary preferences and tastes, making it a truly adaptable and delightful dish.
ONE POT MEXICAN RICE CASSEROLE
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 can 15 oz corn, drained
- 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack
Instructions
Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Season and Mix:
- Return the skillet to the stove. Add the taco seasoning and garlic powder to the beef, stirring to combine.
Add Ingredients:
- Stir in the rice, beef broth, corn, tomato sauce, and salsa. Mix everything thoroughly.
Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender.
Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the pan again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted, serve the casserole hot, straight from the pot.
