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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
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A vibrant, delicious, and easy-to-make One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole combining savory rice, black beans, zesty tomatoes with green chilies, aromatic spices, and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful and fulfilling dish is customizable, family-friendly, and nutritious, bringing both comfort and excitement to your dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian/vegan option)
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican spice blend (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano)
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Optional Variations

  • Cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or sautéed shrimp for protein boost
  • Bell peppers, corn, and zucchini for added vegetables
  • Chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for added heat
  • Alternative cheeses like pepper jack, queso fresco, or smoked gouda
  • Brown rice or quinoa as a whole grain substitute

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant to create a flavorful base.
  2. Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the pot and stir frequently to toast lightly in the oil and onion mixture, enhancing aroma and preventing sticking.
  3. Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and black beans. Sprinkle in the Mexican spice blend, then stir well to combine all flavors evenly.
  4. Simmer the Casserole: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  5. Add Cheese and Garnish: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover for a few minutes to melt. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Use good quality broth for a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Do not skip toasting the rice; it improves texture and aroma.
  • Keep the pot covered during simmering to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
  • Adjust spice levels according to your preference by adding more chili powder or jalapeños.
  • Let the casserole rest covered for a few minutes after cooking to let flavors meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice casserole, one pot meal, easy dinner, black beans, Mexican spices, cheesy rice casserole, family-friendly, gluten free

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/one-pot-mexican-rice-casserole/