ONE POT MEXICAN RICE CASSEROLE
If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup, the One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is your answer. This dish brings together the vibrant and bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, all cooked in one pot for ultimate convenience. With a delightful combination of rice, black beans, vegetables, and gooey cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this mouthwatering One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole.
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One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe Ingredients
Get ready to savor the flavors of Mexico with the following ingredients for the One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole:
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| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Long-grain white rice | 1 cup |
| Black beans (canned or cooked) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Corn kernels (fresh or frozen) | 1 cup |
| Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) | 1 cup |
| Bell peppers (any color) | 1 cup (diced) |
| Onion | 1 medium (diced) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (minced) |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable broth or water | 2 cups |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh cilantro (for garnish) | Optional |
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s proceed to make this delectable One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole!
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Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet or a Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add the Rice and Spices: Stir in the long-grain white rice, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toast the rice and spices for about a minute to enhance their flavors.
- Pour in the Liquid: Add the vegetable broth or water to the skillet, ensuring it covers the rice and reaches a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Mix in the diced bell peppers, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Black Beans: Once the rice is cooked, fold in the black beans, distributing them evenly throughout the casserole.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. You can cover the skillet with the lid for a few minutes to melt the cheese or place it under the broiler for a bubbly, golden crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro if desired, and let it cool slightly before serving.
The One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is a delightful and satisfying meal that brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to your dinner table. With its simple preparation and delicious combination of ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a taste of Southwestern cuisine.
So, grab your ingredients and give this easy One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole a try. It’s a dish that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds and asking for the recipe!
