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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a vibrant, hearty dish that combines fluffy rice, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and melted cheese with authentic Mexican spices. Cooked entirely in one pot, it offers a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly meal that is easy to prepare and customize to your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup white or brown rice
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth

Spices and Heat

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 jalapeño or green chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

  • 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, queso fresco, or Monterey Jack)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and aromatic, forming the flavor base for the casserole.
  2. Toast the Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it lightly with the onions and garlic for about 3-4 minutes to add nuttiness and prevent sticking.
  3. Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and jalapeño if using. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
  4. Simmer Until Cooked: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid frequently for perfect steaming.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Cilantro: Once cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Choose long-grain white rice for fluffier texture; brown rice will require more cooking time and liquid.
  • Toasting the rice enhances its flavor and helps prevent clumping.
  • Adjust chili powder and jalapeños to suit your preferred spice level.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten flavors.
  • This dish is naturally gluten-free; verify that broth and spices are gluten-free when purchasing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican rice casserole, one pot dinner, easy weeknight meal, gluten free Mexican recipe, rice and beans casserole

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