Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice – A Comforting One-Dish Dinner Everyone Loves

When it comes to easy, satisfying meals that the whole family can agree on, Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice checks every box. It’s hearty, cheesy, packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, and made with simple pantry ingredients you likely already have. Whether you’re feeding a busy household, prepping meals ahead of time, or craving something cozy and filling, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

This dish brings together seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, tomatoes, beans, corn, and melty cheese in one comforting bake. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while saving you from washing a sink full of dishes. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly earns a permanent spot in your weekly dinner rotation.

Why This Mexican Ground Beef Casserole Works So Well

Casseroles are beloved for a reason—they’re forgiving, flexible, and perfect for feeding a crowd. This Mexican-inspired version stands out because it balances spice, texture, and richness without being overly heavy. The rice absorbs the seasoned beef juices and tomato base, creating a deeply flavorful foundation, while the cheese adds that irresistible golden finish.

Another reason this recipe is so popular is its adaptability. You can easily customize the spice level, swap ingredients based on what you have, or make it ahead for stress-free dinners later in the week. It’s ideal for weeknights, potlucks, and even casual gatherings where comfort food is the goal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade seasoning)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1½ cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili powder over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat evenly.
5. Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, and beef broth to the skillet. Mix until fully combined.
6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and absorb the liquid.
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven uncovered.
9. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice

A hearty, cheesy Mexican-inspired casserole made with seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, corn, and melted cheese.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex

Calories: 420

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
• 1 small onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1.5 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Measuring cups
• Aluminum foil

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in seasoning, rice, tomatoes, beans, corn, and broth.
5. Transfer mixture to baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 35 minutes, then uncover and add cheese.
7. Bake uncovered 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted.

Notes

Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease pooling at the bottom of the dish.
• Cover tightly during the first bake so the rice cooks evenly and stays tender.
• If your oven runs hot, check the casserole at the 30-minute mark to prevent over-drying.
• Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Variations You’ll Love

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in ½ cup sour cream before baking for a richer texture.
• Chicken Option: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey.
• Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice (reduce broth by half).

Serving Suggestions

Mexican ground beef casserole with rice is filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. Warm tortillas or tortilla chips on the side make it even more satisfying.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole stores exceptionally well. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven, covered, at 350°F until heated through.

You can also assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it unbaked, and bake when ready—perfect for busy weeks.