Few things satisfy like the bold, comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine. Smoky spices, rich ground beef, hearty rice, and melty cheese—what’s not to love? Now imagine all of that layered into one warm, bubbling casserole. That’s exactly what you get with this Beef and Rice Mexican Casserole—a one-dish wonder that brings all the flavor of a Tex-Mex feast to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, prepping for the week ahead, or hosting a casual get-together, this casserole hits all the right notes. It’s filling, flavorful, easy to assemble, and even better the next day. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable depending on your preferences or what’s in your fridge. Think of it as your base recipe for creating your own delicious variation.
Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic, cheesy, beef and rice Mexican-style casserole:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup long-grain rice, cooked (white or brown)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot—your choice)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
- Sliced jalapeños (for heat)
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink—about 6–8 minutes.
Drain excess grease if necessary, then add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for another 4–5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat the beef mixture evenly. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix well and simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Step 2: Combine with Rice
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked rice. If you’re using freshly made rice, let it cool slightly before mixing it in to avoid overcooking the other ingredients. Taste and adjust with salt or pepper as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 or 8×8-inch baking dish.
Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded cheese, making sure it covers the surface generously.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden around the edges. If you like a crispier top, broil it for the last 2–3 minutes—but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Top with your favorite garnishes like cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños, and serve hot!
Tips for the Best Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole
✅ Use Pre-Cooked or Leftover Rice: This dish is perfect for using up leftover rice. Just make sure it’s not too wet, as that can make the casserole soggy.
✅ Make It Spicier or Milder: Control the heat by choosing your level of salsa (mild, medium, or hot) and by adding fresh or pickled jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or even chipotle powder.
✅ Cheese Choices: A shredded Mexican cheese blend adds great flavor, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a bit more heat.
✅ Swap the Protein: Not a fan of ground beef? Use ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Lentils work great for a vegetarian version.
✅ Add a Crunchy Topping: Crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions sprinkled on top before serving can add great texture and contrast.
✅ Make Ahead Friendly: You can fully assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. It also freezes well—just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
What to Serve With Beef and Rice Mexican Casserole
This casserole can stand on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, try pairing it with:
Mexican Street Corn (Elote-style) – Sweet, spicy, and creamy, it’s the perfect contrast.
Simple Green Salad – Tossed in a lime vinaigrette for a fresh bite.
Guacamole and Chips – A no-brainer when serving anything Tex-Mex.
Beverage Pairing – A cold Mexican lager, sparkling water with lime, or a light sangria complements this dish beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
One Dish, Full Meal – Protein, carbs, veggies, and flavor—all in one pan.
Customizable – Adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Family-Approved – The flavors are kid-friendly, yet bold enough to satisfy grown-up palates.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes just as delicious the next day, and reheats easily.
Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
The Beef and Rice Mexican Casserole is more than just dinner—it’s comfort food with flair. From the first bite, you’ll get layers of savory beef, hearty rice, melty cheese, and all the vibrant spices you’d expect from your favorite Mexican dishes.
Whether you’re planning a laid-back dinner or just want something easy, filling, and delicious, this casserole delivers. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.
Serve it straight from the oven, top it with your favorite fixings, and let the fiesta begin.
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