One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole

Looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love? This One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the answer! Packed with flavorful ingredients like rice, beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, this dish is sure to satisfy your craving for Mexican cuisine. Plus, it’s all made in one pot for easy cleanup.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this Mexican rice casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Large pot with lid
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa

Directions:

1. Saute the Aromatics:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Rice and Spices:
   • Stir in the rice, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted and coated with the spices.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), frozen corn kernels, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer the Casserole:
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the casserole simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve:
   • Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve the Mexican rice casserole hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, or salsa.

Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole for a tasty meal that’s both easy to make and full of delicious Mexican-inspired flavors!