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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
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This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal combining fluffy long-grain white rice, bold Mexican spices, fresh vegetables, black beans, and melty cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or any occasion where you want a delicious all-in-one dish with minimal cleanup and customizable options.

Ingredients

Scale

Base 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 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon Mexican spice blend (1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)

Finishing Touches

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to build a flavorful base for the casserole.
  2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the chopped bell peppers and the Mexican spice blend (cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika). Cook for another 2 minutes, coating the vegetables with the spices to bring out warm, smoky flavors.
  3. Combine Rice and Liquids: Add the long-grain white rice, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients and ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
  4. Simmer Covered: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the steam in.
  5. Add Cheese and Finish: Remove the lid and evenly sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Replace the lid and let the casserole sit off the heat for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly into a gooey topping.

Notes

  • Lightly toast the rice in the pot before adding liquids to enhance its flavor.
  • Spread ingredients evenly in the pot to ensure consistent cooking and prevent clumping.
  • Keep the lid on during simmering to trap steam for properly cooked rice.
  • Use freshly ground spices for the best aroma and flavor quality.
  • Let the casserole rest a few minutes after cooking for flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole, Mexican Rice, Easy Casserole, Quick Dinner, Gluten Free, Mexican Spices, Rice and Beans, Comfort Food

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