One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

 **One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole – A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Wonder**

If you’re craving something hearty, colorful, and bursting with bold flavor—but don’t want to spend hours cooking—this **One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole** is your answer. It’s the perfect combination of **seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, zesty tomatoes, melty cheese, and classic Mexican spices**, all simmered together in one pot for easy cleanup. Think of it as a comforting fiesta in a bowl—fast, flavorful, and family-approved.

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### 🌮 **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**

* **One pot = no mess** – Everything cooks in one skillet for effortless cleanup.

* **Perfectly seasoned** – Packed with cumin, chili powder, and smoky paprika.

* **Comfort meets convenience** – A full meal with protein, veggies, and carbs in every bite.

* **Customizable** – Adjust spice levels, swap the meat, or make it vegetarian!

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## 🧄 Ingredients

### For the Casserole:

* **1 lb (450g) ground beef** – provides rich, savory flavor and hearty texture.

* **1 small onion, diced** – adds sweetness and depth.

* **1 bell pepper, diced (any color)** – for color and crunch.

* **3 cloves garlic, minced** – enhances flavor and adds warmth.

* **1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)** – absorbs all the delicious seasonings and broth.

* **1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed** – adds protein and fiber.

* **1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)** – adds acidity and juiciness.

* **1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce** – creates a rich, cohesive base.

* **2 cups chicken broth (or beef broth)** – helps cook the rice and deepen flavor.

* **1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)** – for sweetness and texture.

### Seasonings:

* **2 teaspoons chili powder** – gives that classic Mexican kick.

* **1 teaspoon cumin** – adds earthiness.

* **1 teaspoon smoked paprika** – enhances depth and warmth.

* **½ teaspoon oregano** – for a subtle herbal note.

* **Salt and pepper to taste** – balances all the flavors.

### For Topping:

* **1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese** – melts beautifully over the casserole.

* **Fresh cilantro, chopped** – brightens up the dish.

* **Optional garnishes:** diced avocado, sour cream, lime wedges, jalapeño slices.

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## 👩‍🍳 Instructions

### **Step 1: Brown the Meat and Vegetables**

1. Heat a large **deep skillet or Dutch oven** over medium heat.

2. Add the **ground beef** and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

3. Stir in the **onion, bell pepper, and garlic**, and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

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### **Step 2: Add Rice and Seasonings**

1. Stir in **uncooked rice**, letting it toast for 1–2 minutes to enhance the nutty flavor.

2. Add **chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper**. Mix well so the spices evenly coat the beef and rice.

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### **Step 3: Simmer to Perfection**

1. Pour in **diced tomatoes (with juice)**, **tomato sauce**, **black beans**, **corn**, and **chicken broth**.

2. Stir everything together, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pan for maximum flavor.

3. Bring to a boil, then **reduce heat to low**, cover, and **simmer for 20–25 minutes**, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

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### **Step 4: Finish and Serve**

1. Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and **sprinkle shredded cheese** evenly over the top.

2. Cover for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.

3. Garnish with **fresh cilantro** and any optional toppings you love.

Serve hot straight from the skillet for a truly comforting meal.

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## 🌟 Pro Tips for Success

* **Use long-grain rice** for the best texture (short-grain tends to get sticky).

* **Don’t peek too often** while simmering—lifting the lid releases steam needed to cook the rice properly.

* **Make it vegetarian:** Skip the beef and add extra beans or diced zucchini.

* **Add spice:** Stir in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.

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## 🍽️ Serving Suggestions

* Serve with **warm tortillas** or **crusty bread** to scoop up every last bite.

* Pair with a side of **guacamole**, **pico de gallo**, or **simple green salad** for freshness.

* Turn leftovers into burrito fillings or stuff them into bell peppers for an easy second meal.