Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Dish

Few dishes bring families together like a hearty casserole fresh out of the oven. Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that delivers a rich combination of spices, tender beef, and gooey cheese in every bite. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe is as satisfying as it is simple. Let’s dive into every detail so you can make this dish like a pro.

What Makes Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice So Special?

Casseroles are beloved for their ability to combine ingredients into a cohesive, flavorful dish. This casserole stands out because it blends Mexican-inspired spices with tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese for a meal that’s both nourishing and exciting. Plus, it’s cooked in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get into the step-by-step process, let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s a handy table to keep everything organized.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Olive oil	2 tbsp	For sautéing
Onion, finely chopped	1	Adds a sweet, savory base
Garlic cloves, minced	3	For robust flavor
Ground beef (lean)	500g (1 lb)	Protein-rich main ingredient
Tomato paste	1/3 cup	Intensifies the tomato flavor
Long-grain white rice (uncooked)	1 1/4 cup	Absorbs all the rich flavors
Chicken broth (low sodium)	2.5 cups (625 ml)	Adds moisture and seasoning
Corn kernels (drained)	400g (14oz can)	Adds sweetness and texture
Black beans (drained)	400g (14oz can)	Fiber-packed and filling
Capsicum/bell pepper, diced	1	Adds crunch and sweetness
Green onions/shallots	1 cup	For freshness and garnish
Cheese, shredded	2 cups (200g)	Any cheese that melts well

Mexican Spices

Spice	Quantity
Cayenne pepper	0.5 tsp
Dried oregano	1.5 tbsp
Cumin	3 tsp
Coriander	3 tsp
Onion powder	3 tsp
Paprika	2 tsp
Salt	1.5 tsp

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps for a perfect casserole every time.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over high heat.
• Add onion and garlic, and cook for about 1.5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This builds the flavor foundation.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• Add the ground beef, breaking it up as you go. Cook until there are no visible raw spots, which takes about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Season Generously

• Add all the Mexican spices: cayenne pepper, oregano, cumin, coriander, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
• Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices, releasing their full aroma.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Tomato Paste

• Toss in the diced capsicum and cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in the tomato paste and mix well.

Step 5: Combine Rice, Broth, Corn, and Beans

• Pour in the chicken broth, then add the uncooked rice, corn, and black beans.
• Stir everything together, bring to a simmer, and cover with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook gently for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Stir in Green Onions and Cheese

• Remove the lid and stir through the green onions and half the shredded cheese.

Step 7: Add the Final Cheese Layer

• Smooth the top of the mixture and sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the surface.
• Cover the pot for 1 minute to allow the cheese to melt.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the pot from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

1. Choose the Right Cheese

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work beautifully in this recipe. Opt for cheese that melts smoothly for a creamy finish.

2. Don’t Skip the Spices

The Mexican spices are key to the dish’s flavor profile. Adjust the cayenne if you prefer less heat.

3. Use Low-Sodium Broth

Low-sodium broth gives you control over the salt level while ensuring a balanced flavor.

4. Test the Rice for Doneness

Check the rice for doneness before serving. If it’s still a bit firm, add a splash of broth and cook for a few more minutes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional profile per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	20g
Fiber	8g
Sodium	780mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and simmer for about 30 minutes.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the final cheese layer, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat and melt the cheese.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. What can I serve with this casserole?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, tortilla chips, or guacamole for a complete meal.

5. How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the ground beef and double the black beans or add another can of beans like pinto or kidney.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Zucchini, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños are excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and perfect for busy weeknights. It combines rich, hearty flavors with the convenience of one-pot cooking. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it a time-saving winner.

Ready to Try This Delicious Recipe?

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a dish that’s sure to impress.

Bon appétit!

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