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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
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This Easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining tender rice, zesty spices, and creamy cheese, all cooked effortlessly in a single pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish offers warmth, convenience, and vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables and Beans

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup black beans or corn (drained and rinsed if canned)

Liquids and Seasoning

  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian/vegan)
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican seasoning blend (cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano)

Cheese and Garnishes

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Juice of 1 lime (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins

  • Oil for sautéing (e.g., olive oil or vegetable oil)
  • Protein additions: cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or turkey
  • Optional veggies: diced bell peppers, zucchini
  • Spice boosters: jalapeños or hot sauce (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté Aromatics – Heat a splash of oil in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant to build the casserole’s flavor base.
  2. Step 2: Toast the Rice – Stir in the uncooked long-grain rice and toast it with the aromatics for 2 minutes to enhance nuttiness and prevent mushiness.
  3. Step 3: Add Liquids and Spices – Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans or corn, and sprinkle the Mexican seasoning blend. Stir thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
  4. Step 4: Simmer Until Tender – Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice absorbs the liquid and is tender.
  5. Step 5: Cheese It Up and Serve – Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again for 2–3 minutes to let the cheese melt. Finish by garnishing with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Notes

  • Use quality broth (homemade or low-sodium) for richer flavor.
  • Don’t skip toasting rice; it keeps grains fluffy.
  • Distribute cheese evenly for consistent melty texture.
  • Let casserole rest off heat for 5 minutes before serving to help it set.
  • Add fresh cilantro and lime juice at the end for bright, fresh flavor.
  • For vegan option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based or omit cheese.
  • If using brown rice, increase cooking time to 40-45 minutes and add more broth as needed.
  • Add cooked proteins like shredded chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal.
  • Adjust spice level with jalapeños or hot sauce to your preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice casserole, one pot meal, easy dinner, Mexican flavors, casserole, gluten free, weeknight recipe, cheesy rice casserole, family friendly

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/one-pot-mexican-rice-casserole/