There's something truly comforting about the warmth of a casserole bubbling away in the oven, especially on a busy weeknight. After a long day, the rich aroma of my Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice fills my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table in anticipation. This dish is an unexpected hero of my dinner rotation—not only is it packed with flavor, but it also brings together the best ingredients: tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a perfect blend of spices that create a fiesta right in your own home.
I discovered this recipe while searching for a way to spice up our mundane meals, and it quickly became a family favorite. It effortlessly combines ease and deliciousness, making it ideal for anyone tired of fast food and seeking homemade comfort. In just under an hour, you can indulge in a satisfying meal that pleases the whole family, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into the magic of this delightful casserole!
Why You'll Love This Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice
- This Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The burst of flavors from the spices and ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone at the table wanting more.
- Its versatility shines as you can easily customize the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to cater to your taste.
- With its vibrant colors and cheesy topping, this casserole is visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering.
Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice Ingredients
For the Casserole
• 1 lb ground beef – a flavorful base that adds heartiness to your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps in browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 onion (diced) – adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – infuses a rich aroma and sharp flavor to the casserole.
• 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked) – provides a filling, substantial element to this comforting meal.
• 2 cups beef broth – keeps the rice moist and flavorful as it cooks.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – adds moisture and a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.
• 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed) – boosts protein and adds a creamy texture.
• 1 cup corn kernels – offers sweetness and a pop of color to the casserole.
• 2 tablespoon taco seasoning – infuses the dish with bold, zesty flavors.
For the Topping
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar) – creates a golden, melty layer that adds richness and decadence.
How to Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice
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Sauté onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they're fragrant and the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
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Mix in seasoning and base: Stir in the taco seasoning, uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Incorporate beans and corn: Add the drained black beans and corn kernels to the skillet, mixing everything together well. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed among the ingredients.
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Transfer to baking dish: Carefully pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
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Bake to perfection: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Top with cheese and brown: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a slight golden color.
Optional: For an extra kick, serve with jalapeños or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice?
Imagine a dinner table filled with comforting sides that elevate your main dish into a full fiesta experience.
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Zesty Mexican Slaw: Bright and crunchy, this slaw adds a refreshing contrast that complements the casserole's richness. Drizzle with lime and toss in cilantro for a burst of flavor.
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Homemade Guacamole: Creamy and indulgent, guacamole pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the casserole. Serve it with tortilla chips as an appetizer or alongside the meal for a savory kick.
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Spanish Rice: Fluffy and infused with bold spices, this classic side heightens the Mexican-inspired vibe and rounds out your meal. It offers an extra layer of deliciousness on the plate that everyone will appreciate.
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Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread muffins are a delightful accompaniment, honoring the comforting essence of your casserole while adding a touch of texture.
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Charred Vegetables: Roasted or grilled veggies bring a smoky flavor and colorful presentation to the meal. Their slight crunch beautifully balances the tenderness of the casserole!
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Margaritas: A refreshing beverage choice that enhances the spirit of a Mexican feast, margaritas offer a perfect blend of tangy and sweet that pairs beautifully with the ground beef casserole.
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Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For a sweet ending, these crispy treats are a delight. Their warm sweetness and dip-able chocolate create the ideal dessert, ensuring everyone leaves the table with a smile.
With these perfect pairings, your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice will transform into a lively home-cooked feast that your loved ones will cherish.
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps, then covering it tightly with foil and refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping everything fresh. When you're ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. To maintain its quality, be sure to cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. You'll enjoy a delicious meal that’s just as satisfying and comforting as if it were freshly made!
Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice Variations
Feel free to make this comforting casserole your own with these fun twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for a vibrant heat that elevates your casserole experience.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a blend of your favorite vegetables for a hearty meatless option.
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Cheesy Explosion: Try mixing different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy, melted goodness that oozes flavor.
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Southwestern Flair: Incorporate diced bell peppers and corn for an extra burst of color and sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.
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Extra Protein: Swap black beans for kidney beans or chickpeas for varied taste and texture, keeping it nutritious and filling.
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Flavorful Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth in place of beef broth to alter the taste profile while keeping it delicious.
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Nutty Substitution: Replace rice with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative that brings a nutty flavor and added texture to your casserole.
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Herbaceous Twist: Sprinkle in a handful of fresh cilantro or parsley before serving for a burst of freshness that brightens the dish beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice
Fridge: Consume leftovers within 3 days, storing them in an airtight container to keep your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in resealable bags, where they will last up to 3 months. Ensure to label the bags with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Wraps: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your casserole maintains its delicious taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice, make sure to brown your beef well to develop deeper flavors.
- Avoid overcooking the rice before adding it to the casserole; it should be uncooked so it can absorb the beef broth during baking.
- To enhance the flavors, let the beef and vegetable mixture simmer for a few minutes before transferring it to the baking dish.
- Remember to cover the casserole with foil during the first part of baking to ensure even cooking and prevent dryness.
Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef (80/20) as it gives you a nice balance of flavor without excessive grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can also use ground turkey or chicken, but be sure to adjust seasoning as they have milder flavors.
How should I store leftovers of the Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice?
After enjoying your delicious casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation—nobody wants a soggy casserole!
Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Very! To freeze your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice, first let it cool completely. Then, portion it into individual serving sizes and place them in resealable freezer bags or airtight containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label your bags with the date to keep track of freshness!
What if my rice doesn't cook properly in the casserole?
If you find your rice is undercooked after baking and there’s still too much liquid, it may need a bit more time. Cover the casserole with foil again and continue baking in 10-minute increments until the rice is tender. Keep an eye on the liquid levels as well; if too much has evaporated, you can add a splash of broth or water to help it along.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! While this casserole is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your taco seasoning and any additional toppings are gluten-free, it does contain dairy from the cheese. If you have lactose intolerance, you can easily substitute with lactose-free cheese. Always check for any allergies related to the canned ingredients like beans or corn before serving.
What toppings can I add to this casserole?
The more the merrier! This dish is versatile, so feel free to personalize it to your liking. Consider topping it with diced avocados, sour cream, or fresh cilantro after baking. For a spicy kick, jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes are delightful additions, enhancing the overall flavor of your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice!
Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the drained black beans and corn kernels to the skillet, mixing well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
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