One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
This One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together the bold spices of Mexican cuisine in a single skillet. Packed with rice, beans, tomatoes, veggies, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a weeknight dinner favorite that requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Vegetarian-friendly and endlessly customizable!
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
What You’ll Love:
- One pan = easy cleanup
- Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd
- Customizable with your favorite toppings or proteins
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
1–1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for serving
Optional add-ins:
1 cup cooked ground beef, chicken, or turkey
Jalapeño slices for heat
Avocado, sour cream, or salsa for topping
Instructions:
Sauté aromatics:
In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook for 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Add rice and spices:
Stir in the rice and toast for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Combine and simmer:
Add black beans, corn, tomatoes (with juice), and broth. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
Cook covered:
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20–22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add cheese:
Once cooked, remove from heat, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, and cover again for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Garnish and serve:
Fluff rice gently and top with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and your favorite toppings.
Nutrition (approx. per serving, serves 6):
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: ~450mg