Description
This Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-pan dinner idea that’s both comforting and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, it brings together seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and vibrant vegetables in just one skillet. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup, making it a great choice for those looking for quick dinner ideas, easy family meals, or one-dish food ideas. Whether you’re craving a healthy snack, an easy dinner, or hearty breakfast ideas for brunch, this dish checks all the boxes with bold taste and simplicity.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce or 1 cup salsa
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped tomatoes, fresh cilantro, green onions, sour cream, avocado
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat. Season with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce or salsa, beef broth, rice, and corn. Mix well.
4. Bring to a light boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes (or 10 minutes for instant rice), stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover again, and let sit for 2–3 minutes until melted.
6. Garnish with optional toppings and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Notes
For a lighter version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat.
Add black beans or diced bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
For extra flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes or chipotle salsa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg