Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice (Beef mince!)

Why Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice stands out for its simplicity and heartiness. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, blending ground beef with savory spices, colorful vegetables, and creamy cheese to create a delightful experience. You can whip this up for a busy weeknight dinner or serve it at a cozy gathering; everyone will love it. Its easy preparation means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Why Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

Ease of Preparation
This casserole takes minimal effort to prepare. You simply combine the ingredients in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Ideal for busy weeknights!
Incredible Taste
The combination of spices like cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper brings a burst of flavor to the dish. You’ll enjoy the savory, spicy profile that makes each bite satisfying.
Budget-Friendly
Using affordable ingredients like ground beef, rice, and beans, this recipe proves that hearty meals don’t have to break the bank. It’s cost-effective while still being filling.
Healthier Option
Packed with protein and fiber from the beef and beans, this casserole provides essential nutrients. You can also customize it with extra veggies for added health benefits.

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

Preparing Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice is straightforward and rewarding. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ground beef in a large pot, allowing the flavors to meld. The spices add depth, making the meat truly flavorful. Next, you mix in rice, beans, corn, and the colorful bell pepper, creating a beautiful palette of textures and tastes.

The magic happens when you cover the pot and let it simmer, allowing the rice to cook perfectly and absorb the flavors of the ingredients. Once it’s done, adding green onions and melted cheese on top elevates the dish, turning it into a delightful comfort meal that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the casserole:2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
500g (1 lb) ground beef (mince), lean
1/3 cup tomato paste
1 1/4 cup long grain white rice, uncooked (Note 1)
2.5 cups (625 ml) low sodium chicken broth/stock
400g (14oz) can corn kernels, drained (Note 2)
400g (14oz) can black beans, drained (or other beans)
1 capsicum/bell pepper, diced
1 cup green onions/shallots
2 cups (200g) cheese, shredded (anything that melts! Note 3)
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper (Note 4)
1.5 tbsp dried oregano
3 tsp cumin
3 tsp coriander
3 tsp onion powder
2 tsp paprika
1.5 tsp salt

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat.
Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 1.5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until there’s no raw meat left (about 2 minutes).
Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to release flavors.
Stir in the diced capsicum and cook for 1 minute.
Mix in the tomato paste and chicken broth, ensuring everything blends well.
Add uncooked rice, corn, and black beans, stirring to combine.
Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook gently for 15 minutes.
Remove the lid and quickly fold in the green onions and half of the shredded cheese.
Smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining cheese over it. Cover for 1 minute to allow the cheese to melt.
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

How to Serve Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

You can serve Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice in many delightful ways. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a crunchy contrast. A slice of avocado or guacamole adds creaminess, enhancing the dish’s flavor. Consider serving some tortilla chips on the side for a fun crunch or a dollop of sour cream to balance the spice. You can also enjoy it with a refreshing limeade or iced tea.

How to Store Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

To store, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze it, use freezer-safe containers, and it can last for 2-3 months. When ready to reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.

Tips to Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

Ingredient Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a leaner option. Swap brown rice for long grain rice for a whole grain benefit.
Quality Improvement: For optimal flavor, brown the beef well and ensure your spices are fresh. This enhances aromas and taste significantly.
Time-Savers: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Chop veggies and measure out spices the day before to make cooking a snap.
Troubleshooting: If the rice remains hard after simmering, add a splash more broth and continue cooking until tender.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack for extra spice or a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.

Variations

Vegetarian Mexican Casserole: Replace ground beef with sautéed zucchini and mushrooms for a hearty veggie option, keeping everything else the same.
Spicy Southwest Casserole: Add jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick, perfect for spice lovers who enjoy a zesty flavor profile.
Tex-Mex Casserole: Integrate tortilla strips into the casserole for a hearty crunch on top, along with your favorite salsa for added zest.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble everything and keep it in the fridge until ready to bake.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

How do I heat leftovers?

Reheat in the microwave or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help maintain moisture during reheating.