Taco Rice Casserole Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

I remember the first time I laid eyes on a taco rice casserole. I was flipping through a friend’s recipe book during a casual dinner gathering. 

At first glance, it looked like a comforting hug on a plate. Rich, cheesy, and topped with all the good stuff, it caught my attention immediately. I decided to dive into the world of taco rice casserole myself, and let me tell you, it was a decision I did not regret.

What Is Taco Rice Casserole?

So, you might be wondering: what exactly is taco rice casserole? Simply put, it’s a delightful combination of seasoned ground meat, rice, beans, and cheese all baked together to create a one-pot meal that is both hearty and satisfying. 

It’s like a taco, but in casserole form. You have layers of flavors and textures that just work so well together. Picture perfectly cooked rice cradled by spicy beef and a melty cheese topping. It’s comfort food at its finest. After experimenting with a few versions, I can confidently say this dish deserves a spot in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Taco Rice Casserole

Let’s dive into the reasons why taco rice casserole is a crowd-pleaser. For starters, it’s a complete meal—all in one dish. You won’t need to whip up multiple sides, as this casserole has it all. It’s also inherently customizable. You can add your favorite ingredients or swap out the beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option. Plus, who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? The melted cheese on top binds everything together into a gooey masterpiece.

Not to mention, this dish is perfect for meal prep. I’ve had days when I would make a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick dinners throughout the week. Finding something that makes weeknight dinners easier is like finding a pot of gold.

The Ingredients

To create this taco rice casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients, which you might already have in your pantry:

• 4 cups cooked rice (any variety; I used regular white rice)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups corn kernels
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (10 ounces each) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 4 tablespoons homemade seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added richness)

Having these ingredients ready can make your cooking experience so much smoother.

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s break down the process. Each step is straightforward, but they build on each other to create something really wonderful.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want the casserole to bake evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess fat. The beef adds a hearty flavor foundation to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onions are soft and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also a lovely fragrance to your kitchen.

Step 4: Mix in the Spices

Next, add taco seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt to the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Take a moment to savor that delicious taco aroma!

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, corn kernels, black beans, and the beef-onion mixture. It’s like a hug in a bowl—everything gets cozy together.

Step 6: Add the Diced Tomatoes

Carefully fold in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the mixture. The tomatoes will add moisture and acidity, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.

Step 7: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Layer with Cheese

Now, it’s time for the best part! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. More cheese equals more happiness, right?

Step 9: Bake

Cover the casserole dish with foil (to prevent excessive browning) and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop. Serve it up and watch as everyone digs in with joy.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your taco rice casserole game, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and cuts down on cooking time.
• Experiment with Beans: Try using pinto, kidney, or chickpeas instead of black beans. They all bring unique flavors and textures.
• Freeze Portions: This casserole freezes beautifully. Just cut it into portions before freezing for easy reheating later on.
• Top with Fresh Toppings: After baking, consider garnishing with sour cream, avocado, green onions, or fresh cilantro. They add a burst of freshness!
• Make It Spicy: If you’re a heat lover, toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

Nutrition Information

Now, let’s talk a bit about nutrition. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: Roughly 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: About 45 grams
• Fat: Approximately 20 grams
• Fiber: Near 10 grams

It’s a balanced meal that packs a punch while still being super satisfying.

Can I Store Taco Rice Casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for storing. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It should last about 3-5 days in the fridge. 

You can also freeze it for up to three months; just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What Can I Serve with Taco Rice Casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to create a fuller spread, here are some ideas:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad brightens up the plate and adds texture.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs deliciously with this savory dish.
• Guacamole and Chips: Spoonfuls of guacamole and crunchy chips will add a fun twist to your meal.
• Salsa: A side of salsa can enhance flavors and add a fresh kick to each bite.
• Mexican Street Corn: This creamy, cheesy side dish brings another layer of flavor to your dinner.

Variations

Now, let’s talk about how you can give this casserole a twist. Here are a few variations worth trying:

• Vegetarian Taco Rice Casserole: Swap the beef for a mixture of bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini, and keep the beans for protein.
• Quinoa Taco Casserole: Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed alternative that adds a unique texture.
• Taco Pasta Casserole: Replace rice with elbow macaroni for a fun pasta version. The flavors will still shine through!
• Buffalo Chicken Taco Casserole: Mix in shredded buffalo chicken instead of beef and top with blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
• Breakfast Taco Casserole: Incorporate scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a breakfast twist. Perfect for brunch gatherings!

Conclusion

Exploring the world of culinary comfort with this taco rice casserole has been a rewarding experience. The mix of flavors, textures, and the sheer ease of preparation makes it a staple I can’t recommend enough. 

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply indulging in a cozy dinner at home, this dish delivers every time. So grab your ingredients and join me in this delicious adventure; you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Taco Hash Brown Casserole Copycat Recipe
• How To Make Taco Cornbread Casserole
• Best Mexican Street Corn Tacos Recipe

Taco Rice Casserole Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

I remember the first time I laid eyes on a taco rice casserole. I was flipping through a friend’s recipe book during a casual dinner gathering. 

At first glance, it looked like a comforting hug on a plate. Rich, cheesy, and topped with all the good stuff, it caught my attention immediately. I decided to dive into the world of taco rice casserole myself, and let me tell you, it was a decision I did not regret.

Author: Rachel Garland Cuisine: Mexican Courses: Main Course

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 12 Calories: 450 kcal Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Servings

• 4 cups cooked rice (any variety, I used regular white rice)

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cups corn kernels

• 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces each)

• 2 cans diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 ounces each)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 4 tablespoons homemade seasoning)

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth)

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want the casserole to bake evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess fat. The beef adds a hearty flavor foundation to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

1. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onions are soft and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also a lovely fragrance to your kitchen.

Step 4: Mix in the Spices

1. Next, add taco seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt to the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Take a moment to savor that delicious taco aroma!

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, corn kernels, black beans, and the beef-onion mixture. It’s like a hug in a bowl—everything gets cozy together.

Step 6: Add the Diced Tomatoes

1. Carefully fold in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the mixture. The tomatoes will add moisture and acidity, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.

Step 7: Transfer to Casserole Dish

1. Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Layer with Cheese

1. Now, it’s time for the best part! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. More cheese equals more happiness, right?

Step 9: Bake

1. Cover the casserole dish with foil (to prevent excessive browning) and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Once it's out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop. Serve it up and watch as everyone digs in with joy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 450kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 20g31%

Total Carbohydrate 45g15%

Dietary Fiber 10g40%

Protein 30g60%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and cuts down on cooking time.
• Experiment with Beans: Try using pinto, kidney, or chickpeas instead of black beans. They all bring unique flavors and textures.
• Freeze Portions: This casserole freezes beautifully. Just cut it into portions before freezing for easy reheating later on.
• Top with Fresh Toppings: After baking, consider garnishing with sour cream, avocado, green onions, or fresh cilantro. They add a burst of freshness!
• Make It Spicy: If you're a heat lover, toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

Keywords: Taco rice casserole recipe