Cheesy Mexican Beef and Rice Casserole

Introduction

Casseroles are the heart of comfort food — warm, filling, and always satisfying. This cheesy Mexican beef and rice casserole takes that comfort to the next level, blending seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, sweet corn, zesty salsa, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a flavorful, family-friendly dish that’s quick to put together and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or gatherings. With bold Mexican-inspired flavors and gooey, golden cheese, every bite feels like a little celebration at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 500 g ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 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)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Season and Combine
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, then add salsa (or tomatoes), corn, and beef broth.
Stir well and let simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.
Mix in the cooked rice until evenly combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
Top generously with shredded cheese.

4. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

5. Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This cheesy Mexican beef and rice casserole is comfort food made easy — hearty, cheesy, and packed with vibrant flavor. The seasoned beef, tender rice, and sweet corn create a satisfying base, while the gooey melted cheese ties everything together. Simple, crowd-pleasing, and full of personality, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prep. Once you try it, it’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.