Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering One Pot Mexican Casserole! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish combines all your favorite Mexican flavors into a simple, hearty meal that comes together in just 35 minutes. Imagine the aroma of seasoned ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and creamy cheese wafting through your kitchen—it's a dish that promises to impress without the hassle! Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into the deliciousness and discover how easy it is to whip up this one-pot wonder!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are prepped: dice the onion, drain the black beans and corn, and measure out the rice and chicken broth.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking and breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until the beef is completely browned and the onion is translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef to ensure the dish isn't greasy.
- Add the taco seasoning to the beef and stir to coat the meat evenly, cooking for an additional minute to release the spices' flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth, uncooked rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and any remaining liquid to be absorbed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover briefly to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the onion and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This way, everything is ready to go when you need it.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you like your casserole with a kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the taco seasoning.
- Use Leftover Proteins: This recipe is versatile! Feel free to substitute ground beef with shredded chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a healthier twist.
- Cheese Choices: While shredded cheese is a must, experiment with different types like pepper jack for extra spice or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the casserole to simmer covered helps the rice absorb all the flavors. Be patient; it’s worth the wait!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top your casserole with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced avocado for a fresh and creamy finish.
- Leftovers Make Great Lunches: This dish stores well in the fridge, so make extra for delicious lunches throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
