Cheesy Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

Introduction

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food — warm, hearty, and packed with flavor in every bite. This cheesy Mexican beef and rice casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together seasoned ground beef, tender rice, sweet corn, zesty salsa, and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a dish that’s not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with Mexican-inspired flavors creates a balance of comfort and excitement that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 500 g ground beef

• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 cup cooked rice

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• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

• 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne)

• 1 cup beef broth

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

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• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Beef Mixture

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.

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   • Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned.

   • Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Season and Combine

   • Add taco seasoning, salsa (or tomatoes), corn, and beef broth.

   • Stir well and let simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors blend.

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   • Mix in the cooked rice until everything is evenly combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole

   • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

   • Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.

   • Top with a generous layer of shredded cheese.

4. Bake

   • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.

5. Serve

   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

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   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Conclusion

This cheesy Mexican beef and rice casserole is a complete meal in one dish — hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The seasoned beef and rice filling combined with sweet corn and salsa creates a vibrant base, while the gooey melted cheese makes every bite irresistible. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table, perfect for feeding a hungry family or sharing with friends. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this casserole is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.