One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Packed with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, vibrant veggies, and melted cheese, it’s a complete meal made in just one pot! Serve it as a main dish or a side for your favorite Mexican-inspired recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 1/2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar)
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add Seasonings and Rice: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat it with the spices.
4. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Pair with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 3g