Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing Taco Rice Casserole that combines the zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting warmth of a home-cooked meal. This incredibly easy recipe is perfect for busy families, hungry weeknight crowds, and anyone craving a delicious, one-dish wonder that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup cheese, shredded
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef using a colander, then return meat to the skillet.
- Add taco seasoning packet to the beef, stirring thoroughly to coat the meat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- In a separate pot, cook rice according to package instructions, ensuring it's slightly firm (not completely soft).
- Combine cooked rice, seasoned ground beef, drained black beans, and corn in the prepared baking dish. Mix ingredients gently but thoroughly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the top of the mixture. Add salt to taste.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and casserole to set.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or salsa if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using fresh ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20) to ensure juiciness.
- Drain beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole and maintain the right texture.
- Use instant or quick-cooking rice to reduce overall preparation time.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like Mexican blend or pepper jack for added kick.
- For a healthier version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking to allow flavors to meld and improve overall consistency.
- Customize with optional toppings like diced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or a dollop of guacamole.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
