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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. This all-in-one meal combines the robust flavors of seasoned ground beef, aromatic rice, and tangy salsa, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the ease of cleanup – everything is cooked in one pot, making it a convenient option for any cook.
I first discovered the joy of one-pot meals when I was a college student living in a small apartment with limited kitchen space. The idea of creating a complete meal in a single pot was not only practical but also incredibly satisfying. This Mexican Rice Casserole quickly became a favorite because it’s packed with flavor and can be easily customized to suit various tastes. Over the years, it has evolved into a go-to recipe that I love sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
1 pound 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-ounce) can corn, drained
8 ounces tomato sauce
1/2 cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to heat up for a minute or two before adding any ingredients.
Cook the Beef and Onion:
Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 small diced onion to the heated skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the beef and onion together, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Drain Excess Grease:
If there is excess grease in the skillet, carefully drain it off to reduce the fat content of the dish.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Add Seasonings:
Return the skillet to the stove and sprinkle the cooked beef with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir well to evenly coat the beef with the spices.
Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids
Add Rice and Broth:
Stir in 1 cup of long grain white rice and 1 1/2 cups of beef broth. The broth will help to cook the rice and infuse it with flavor.
Add Corn, Tomato Sauce, and Salsa:
Add 1 (15-ounce) can of drained corn, 8 ounces of tomato sauce, and 1/2 cup of salsa to the skillet. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Cook the Casserole
Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. This helps to kickstart the cooking process for the rice.
Simmer the Casserole:
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the liquid and become tender.
Check the Rice:
After 18-20 minutes, check the rice for doneness. If it’s not fully cooked, cover the skillet again and let it simmer for a few more minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Top with Cheese:
Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
Melt the Cheese:
Return the lid to the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Serve the One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole hot, straight from the skillet. You can garnish with additional toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Variations and Substitutions
One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or increase the amount of vegetables, such as bell peppers, black beans, or zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for extra heat.
Different Proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Brown Rice: Substitute long grain white rice with brown rice for a healthier option. Note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Conclusion
One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines convenience with bold, delicious flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, sweet corn, tangy salsa, and gooey melted cheese creates a harmony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This recipe’s flexibility allows you to tailor it to your family’s preferences, making it a go-to option that can be customized in countless ways. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and robust flavor of this dish. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this comforting, one-pot meal with your loved ones.
