Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy taco rice casserole being scooped from a baking dish

Taco Rice Casserole

  • Author: Charlotte
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Taco Rice Casserole is a warm, comforting, and budget-friendly meal made with seasoned ground beef, rice, and melty cheese, all baked in one dish. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. Customize it with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1½ tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1¼ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
  • 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • Optional Toppings: Sour cream, avocado, shredded lettuce, chopped cilantro, guacamole

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook meat and onion: In a skillet, cook beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned (7–8 minutes). Drain excess grease.
  3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic for 30 seconds. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
  4. Add rice and liquids: Stir in rice, diced tomatoes with juices, green chilies, and broth. Mix well.
  5. Transfer to baking dish: Pour mixture into prepared dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Add cheese: Remove foil, fluff rice, and top with shredded cheese. Bake uncovered for 8–10 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Rest and serve: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes.

Notes

  • Spice Tip: Use 1 tablespoon chili powder for a milder version. Add cayenne for more heat.
  • Freezing: Cool completely, then portion or freeze whole. Store up to 3 months.
  • Reheat Individual Portions: Microwave with a splash of broth for 2 minutes, stirring halfway.
  • Reheat Full Casserole: Thaw overnight, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes until hot.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Meat Casseroles
  • Method: Baking, Oven
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex, American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 495
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: taco rice casserole, ground beef rice bake, cheesy mexican casserole, easy taco bake, kid friendly taco casserole

Find it online: https://www.recipesoven.com/taco-rice-casserole/