FLAVORFUL FIESTA DELIGHT: ONE POT MEXICAN RICE CASSEROLE

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. 450g ground beef

1 small onion diced

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp. Taco seasoning

1 tsp garlic powder

1 cup 200g long-grain white rice

1 1/2 cups 360ml beef broth

1 15 oz. 425g can corn, drained

8 oz. 225g tomato sauce

1/2 cup 120g salsa

1 cup 100g shredded cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess grease.

Return the skillet to the stove and add the diced onion, garlic powder, and Taco seasoning to the beef. Mix well to combine.

Add the rice, beef broth, corn, tomato sauce, and salsa to the skillet, stirring to incorporate all the ingredients thoroughly.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the flavors meld together.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve this scrumptious One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole, savoring the vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and melty cheesiness that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

NOTES

This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as diced bell peppers, black beans, or even jalapeños for an extra kick.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute the ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken. It will still provide a flavorful and protein-packed option.

If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice instead of cooking it from scratch. Simply reduce the amount of beef broth to 1 cup and stir in the pre-cooked rice when adding the other ingredients.

Experiment with different types of cheese to vary the flavor. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses work wonderfully in this recipe.

If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, you can add fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder. Sauté it with the onion before adding the ground beef.

This casserole reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Garnish your Mexican Rice Casserole with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice to add a burst of freshness.

Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy bolder flavors, you can add additional spices such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder.For a gluten-free version, ensure that the taco seasoning you use is gluten-free certified.

This recipe is great for gatherings and potlucks. Simply double or triple the ingredients to feed a larger crowd.

Enjoy this One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole as a complete meal on its own or serve it alongside tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or a crisp green salad for a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.