The Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender rice, black beans, and a medley of vegetables, all topped with melted cheese. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying combination of protein, grains, and vegetables in every bite. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a family favorite that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Nonstick cooking spray
1 pound ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained
1 (14-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 bunch fresh spinach, trimmed and coarsely chopped
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
1 cup long-grain rice
1 cup mild, medium, or hot red salsa

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. As it begins to brown, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and taco seasoning. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Combine Ingredients: To the skillet, add the drained black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chopped spinach, chicken broth, 1 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese blend, uncooked long-grain rice, and salsa. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving:

Calories: 424
Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 68mg
Sodium: 1,035mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 2g
Protein: 25g
Vitamin C: 18mg
Calcium: 310mg
Iron: 4mg
Potassium: 744mg

Why You’ll Love Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

This dish is a favorite for many reasons, including its ease of preparation, rich flavors, and balanced nutrition. Here’s why it stands out:

One-Pan Convenience – Everything is cooked in a single skillet or baking dish, reducing cleanup time.
Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, this meal keeps you satisfied for hours.
Customizable – You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences, making it a great choice for families with different tastes.
Perfect for Leftovers – The flavors deepen over time, making it an excellent meal prep option.

The Influence of Mexican Cuisine

Mexican cuisine is known for its bold spices, fresh ingredients, and diverse textures. This casserole incorporates many staple ingredients found in traditional Mexican dishes, such as:

Ground beef – Commonly used in tacos and enchiladas, ground beef adds a rich and hearty flavor.
Rice – A staple in many Mexican dishes, rice helps absorb all the delicious flavors in the casserole.
Beans – A great source of protein and fiber, black beans are often included in burritos, soups, and side dishes.
Salsa and tomatoes – These add brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
Cheese – Melted cheese provides a creamy, indulgent topping, reminiscent of classic Mexican comfort foods.

By combining these ingredients, the casserole delivers the same satisfying taste of Mexican cuisine while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Customizing Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

One of the best aspects of this dish is how easily it can be modified to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a spicier version or a healthier alternative, here are some ways to customize the casserole:

Protein Variations – Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian version.
Spice Level – Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra taco seasoning if you prefer a spicier dish. For a milder version, use mild salsa and omit any additional heat.
Vegetable Additions – Enhance the nutritional value by adding bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or spinach. These ingredients blend well with the casserole while adding extra texture and color.
Cheese Options – While a traditional Mexican cheese blend works well, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even cotija for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb Alternative – Swap the rice for cauliflower rice to reduce the carbohydrate content while maintaining the dish’s texture.

The Nutritional Benefits of This Casserole

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it also offers a balanced nutritional profile. Here are some of the key benefits:

Protein-Packed – The ground beef and black beans provide ample protein, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you full longer.
Rich in Fiber – Beans and rice offer a good amount of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and overall gut health.
Good Source of Vitamins – The tomatoes, salsa, and any added vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium.
Healthy Fats – While cheese adds some fat, you can control the amount or opt for reduced-fat versions to keep the dish lighter.

To make the casserole even healthier, use lean ground beef, opt for low-sodium broth and beans, and add more vegetables. These small changes can help create a more nutritious version while maintaining the dish’s delicious taste.

How to Serve Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance it with various side dishes and toppings to create an even more satisfying dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions:

Toppings: Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice can elevate the flavors.
Side Dishes: Serve with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole, a simple salad, or a bowl of black bean soup.
Beverage Pairings: A refreshing agua fresca, iced tea, or even a margarita pairs well with the bold flavors of this dish.

Whether you’re serving this casserole for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you have leftovers, this casserole stores well and can be easily reheated. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe dish. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or in the microwave in 1-minute increments until heated through.

For meal prep, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Why This Casserole is a Family Favorite

One of the reasons Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole is such a beloved dish is its ability to bring people together. The combination of warm, cheesy, and well-seasoned ingredients makes it a comforting meal that appeals to all ages.

Children love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the bold flavors and heartiness of the dish. It’s a meal that encourages sharing and creates a sense of warmth at the dinner table.

Additionally, this casserole is an excellent choice for potlucks, gatherings, and meal trains. Since it’s easy to transport and can be made in large batches, it’s a go-to recipe for feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and comfort. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers a rich and satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its customizable nature, you can easily adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish to share at a family gathering, or a freezer-friendly meal for busy days, this casserole is a fantastic option. The combination of seasoned beef, tender rice, black beans, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both nourishing and incredibly delicious.

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