Mexican Rice Casserole: A Simple, Flavorful Meal That’s Sure to Please the Family

Are you always on the lookout for simple, yet flavorful meals that you can whip up without much effort? If so, this Mexican Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for you! I love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s one of those recipes that the whole family enjoys. Plus, it’s packed with all those yummy Mexican flavors that make it a hit at any dinner table.

I’ve been making this Mexican Rice Casserole for years, and it’s become a go-to dish in our house. It’s one of those recipes that I can throw together quickly, and I usually have most of the ingredients already in my pantry. What I love most about it is that it’s super customizable—you can adjust it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

Let’s talk about how easy it is to make this delicious casserole and why it’s a must-try in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Rice Casserole

This recipe checks all the boxes. It’s quick, easy, and can be made in one dish. It’s great for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen but still want a filling, comforting meal.

The flavors in this casserole are so satisfying—think cheesy, savory, and a little bit spicy (but not too much). It’s packed with rice, beans, tomatoes, and ground beef or chicken, making it a hearty and satisfying dish. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to pull it off. It’s one of those meals that anyone can make, no matter their skill level.

Plus, you can add any extras you like—jalapeños for some extra heat, cilantro for a burst of freshness, or sour cream and guacamole to top it off. There’s no wrong way to serve it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need for this easy Mexican Rice Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (or chicken, if you prefer)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (I use cheddar, but you can use any cheese you like)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color works)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Mexican Rice Casserole

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to get cooking! I promise this won’t take much of your time at all, and the results are so worth it.

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. You’ll want to make sure it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat, then set the meat aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. The peppers and onions will add a nice depth of flavor to the casserole, so don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Combine the Rice and Spices

Now, it’s time to add the rice! Stir it into the skillet with the onions and peppers, and cook it for a minute or two to give it a slight toast. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning, and stir everything together so the rice is well-coated with those delicious spices. Add salt and pepper to taste, and give it another quick stir.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth

Next, pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Once your rice mixture is cooked, it’s time to layer it into a casserole dish. Spread the cooked rice mixture evenly in the dish, then top it with shredded cheese. You can use as much or as little cheese as you like, but I personally love a good layer of cheese that melts beautifully on top.

Step 6: Bake and Enjoy!

Pop the casserole into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Optional: Add Your Favorite Toppings

While the casserole is baking, you can prep any toppings you like. A little bit of sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro on top is always a great addition. You can also serve it with a side of tortilla chips for some extra crunch.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for a plant-based protein or even just extra beans and veggies.
• Spicy Kick: If you like things spicy, add some chopped jalapeños to the mix or stir in some hot sauce when you’re layering the casserole.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in some corn, zucchini, or even spinach for an extra boost of veggies.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezer-Friendly: This dish also freezes well! You can make a double batch, freeze one, and enjoy it later for an even easier meal.

Why This Mexican Rice Casserole is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

I can’t stress enough how much of a time-saver this dish is. Between cooking dinner and dealing with a busy schedule, it’s nice to have a recipe that doesn’t require hours of prep or fancy ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can have a filling, flavorful meal ready in no time.

And because it’s made in one pan, cleanup is a breeze. No need to spend extra time washing multiple pots and pans! Plus, leftovers are just as tasty the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying on a busy evening.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Rice Casserole has quickly become one of my go-to meals, and I’m sure it will be a hit in your home, too. It’s flavorful, comforting, and so easy to make—what’s not to love? Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a weeknight meal for yourself, this casserole will surely hit the spot.

If you give this recipe a try, be sure to let me know how it turns out! I always love hearing about your experiences in the kitchen. And don’t forget to add your own personal twist to make it your own.

So, go ahead and get cooking—you’ll be so glad you did!