This one-pot Mexican rice casserole is a great option for dinner, as it is simple to make and has almost zero clean up. It’s naturally gluten-free and can even be made into a fun dip that is perfect for a party. It’s full of flavor and great for Taco Tuesday!

What is Mexican Rice?

Mexican rice is a type of rice that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It is typically made with white rice, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. It can also be made with brown rice, but this is less common. Mexican rice is often served as a side dish, but it can also be used as a main dish or even as a dip.

What Makes Mexican Rice Different?

The main difference between Mexican rice and other types of rice is the way it is prepared. Mexican rice is typically cooked in a pan with oil, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. It is also often made with tomatoes, onions, and garlic, which give it a distinctively Mexican flavor.

What is Mexican Rice Actually Called?

Mexican rice is also sometimes called arroz rojo, which means “red rice.” This is because of the red color that the tomatoes give to the dish. It is also sometimes called arroz a la mexicana, which means “Mexican-style rice.”

What is the Difference Between Mexican Rice and Spanish Rice?

Believe it or not, there is a difference between the two types of rice. Mainly it is in the mouth feel of the two. Spanish rice is generally much more firm and hearty, while Mexican rice is softer and has more of a “melt in your mouth” reputation.

Additionally, Spanish rice is known for using strands of saffron, which give sit its unique yellowish look, while Mexican rice has more of a reddish tone from the tomatoes it utilizes.

Is Mexican Rice Healthy?

The answer to this question really depends on how you make it. Mexican rice can be made with either white or brown rice. Brown rice is generally considered to be healthier than white rice, as it is a whole grain and has more fiber.

Mexican rice can also be made with healthy ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and garlic. However, it can also be made with less healthy ingredients like cheese and sour cream. So, it really just depends on how you make it.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 15 oz can corn
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup water
1/2 to 1 cup salsa
8 oz tomato sauce
1 cup long grain rice
1 tsp salt and pepper
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 cup shredded cheese

Instructions

Begin by browning your meat in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the grease, then set aside.

Add onions to the pan, then gently sauté for 2 – 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Return the meat to the pan.

Add your taco seasoning and garlic powder, stirring to incorporate it into the meat mixture. I love to use my homemade taco seasoning, but you can use store-bought if that’s all you have.

Add in your tomato sauce, salsa, beef stock, water and corn. Stir so that everything is homogenous. Then add in your rice.

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 15 – 18 minutes. Stir occasionally, making sure the rice is not sticking to the pan. If needed, add tiny bits of water to ensure the rice gets properly cooked.

As a final check, give the whole thing a taste to see if it needs salt or pepper, and add accordingly. Remove from heat, then add your cheese, letting the heat from the pan naturally melt it. If you prefer, you can stir it into the mix, OR you can place the pan into the broiler to crisp it up on top.

That’s it! You’re going to love this absolutely delicious Mexican Rice Casserole. It’s so tasty, however you decide to eat it. I’ve had it by itself as a main dish, on the side of my yummy Sheet Pan Quesadillas, as a dip for some crispy tortilla chips, and even as a filling for some enchiladas.

This dish is so versatile and you can dress it up so much with different toppings. Throw on some sour cream or guacamole, and garnish with cilantro. It’s just honestly so so good.

I hope you’ll give it a try and let me know what you think. Would you add or change anything? Let me know!