Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

Here’s a hearty, flavorful Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole recipe — great for an easy weeknight dinner! 🌮🍚

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🌶️ Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if your beef is lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 ½ tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro and sour cream, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add beef (and oil if needed).
   Cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Add veggies:
   Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.
4. Mix the casserole base:
   Add the uncooked rice, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, broth, and taco seasoning.
   Stir to combine, and bring to a light simmer.
5. Bake:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
   Cover tightly with foil and bake 35–40 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Add cheese:
   Remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes, until bubbly and melted.
7. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños if you like some extra heat.

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Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or ½ tsp cayenne pepper.
• Use brown rice: Increase baking time to ~55–60 minutes and add ½ cup extra broth.
• Low-carb option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice — reduce broth to ½ cup and bake for 20 minutes.
• Add toppings: Crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

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Would you like me to give you a one-pan stovetop version (no baking needed)?