👉CheesyTacoRiceCasserole – Recipes on a Budget

Cheesy Taco Rice Casserole

Description:
This Cheesy Taco Rice Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. The combination of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and salsa, all baked together with melted cheddar cheese, creates a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite taco toppings or ingredients. Serve it with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield:
Serves 6-8 people

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Spanish rice)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of Mexican cheeses)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook according to the package directions (usually adding a little water and simmering for a few minutes).
Add the Veggies: Add the drained corn, black beans, and salsa to the beef mixture. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Combine with Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings and enjoy your cheesy, taco-inspired casserole!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 20g

Serving Tips:

Toppings Galore: Top the casserole with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or green onions.
Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a fresh salad for some extra crunch and a burst of freshness.
Add Tortilla Chips: Crumble tortilla chips on top before baking for a crunchy, Tex-Mex-inspired topping.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole makes great leftovers and can be easily stored in the fridge for a few days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Variations:

Swap Ground Beef for Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey or chicken in place of beef.
Add More Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to add more veggies to the casserole.
Spicy Version: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa or taco seasoning.
Make it Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and add extra beans, corn, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
Use Different Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
Add Rice Variations: Use brown rice, cilantro-lime rice, or Spanish rice instead of plain white rice for extra flavor.

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it as directed when ready to serve.
Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Rice Casserole?
Yes! Freeze the casserole before baking or after baking. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level depends on the salsa and taco seasoning you use. For mild heat, opt for mild salsa and taco seasoning. For more heat, use spicy salsa and seasoning.
Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, leftover rice works great in this recipe. Just make sure it’s already cooked and cooled before adding it to the skillet.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes! You can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.
Can I use black-eyed peas instead of black beans?
Yes, you can substitute black-eyed peas or any other type of bean you prefer.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure the taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the ground beef and use extra beans, veggies, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice will work in this recipe and will add extra fiber and nutrients.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. To prevent it from drying out, cover with foil if reheating in the oven.
Can I add avocado to this casserole?
Yes! Adding sliced or mashed avocado on top just before serving adds a creamy, fresh element.
Can I make this recipe in a smaller baking dish?
Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch baking dish. Just reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
Can I use ground chicken or turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey makes a leaner alternative to ground beef.
What type of salsa should I use?
Use your favorite salsa! Mild, medium, or hot salsa all work well, depending on your spice preference.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown.
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, you can substitute kidney beans, pinto beans, or any other variety you prefer.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and prepare the mixture as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. Add cheese at the end to melt.
Can I skip the baking step?
If you prefer, you can skip the baking step and simply serve the casserole as a stovetop dish with the cheese melted on top.
Can I use fresh rice instead of pre-cooked rice?
Yes, you can cook the rice fresh before adding it to the skillet, but pre-cooked rice is quicker and more convenient.

20 Best Tips for Perfect Cheesy Taco Rice Casserole:

Use pre-cooked rice: For the easiest and quickest casserole, use leftover or pre-cooked rice.
Drain cans properly: Be sure to drain and rinse the beans and corn to avoid excess liquid in your casserole.
Brown the beef properly: Ensure the beef is fully browned and crumbled for the best texture.
Use a good-quality taco seasoning: Opt for a homemade or high-quality taco seasoning for the best flavor.
Don’t overbake the casserole: Bake it just long enough to melt the cheese and warm everything through.
Customize with your favorite toppings: Add sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving: This will help the casserole set and make it easier to cut and serve.
Add a crunchy topping: Sprinkle tortilla chips or crushed nachos on top before baking for extra texture.
Use full-fat cheese for a creamier result: Full-fat cheese melts better and makes the casserole extra creamy.
Make it spicier: Add chopped jalapeños or use a spicy salsa for an extra kick.
Serve with a side of guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with the flavors of the casserole.
Double the recipe: Make a larger batch to feed a bigger crowd or save for leftovers.
Use different beans: Mix in kidney beans, pinto beans, or even refried beans for a variation.
Add fresh veggies: Stir in bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Don’t skip the cheese topping: The melted cheese gives the casserole its signature gooey texture.
Freeze portions for later: Store extra portions in airtight containers for easy meal prep.
Use a glass dish: Glass dishes distribute heat evenly, resulting in perfect casseroles.
Add extra seasonings: Feel free to season with garlic powder, cumin, or chili powder for more flavor.
Check the cheese melt: If you want extra cheesy goodness, add a second layer of cheese halfway through baking.
Serve with a fresh salad: Add a side of crispy lettuce and tomato to balance out the richness of the casserole.