Cheesy Taco Rice Casserole - Easy One-Dish Mexican Dinner
A hearty family-friendly casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and corn topped with melted cheese and creamy sour cream. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal that pleases both kids and adults. The layers create distinct flavors and textures while keeping everything simple with pantry staples and one baking dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F
- 2
Cook ground beef in skillet over medium heat until browned and drain excess fat
- 3
Add taco seasoning and salsa to beef and stir well
- 4
Mix in corn and cooked rice and cook for 5 minutes
- 5
Transfer mixture to baking dish
- 6
Spread sour cream on top
- 7
Sprinkle shredded cheese over sour cream
- 8
Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly
- 9
Let cool for few minutes before serving
Tips
Use day-old rice for better texture that won't get mushy during baking.
Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking so layers set properly for clean slices.
Add diced jalapeños or green chiles to the beef mixture for extra heat and flavor.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
Assemble completely without baking, cover and refrigerate up to 1 day ahead
Serve hot directly from baking dish with optional toppings like avocado or cilantro
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining the beef fat or casserole will be greasy
Use cooked rice that's cooled to avoid mushy texture
Don't overbake or cheese will become tough and rubbery
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well but may need slightly longer baking time. Make sure it's fully cooked before assembling the casserole.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble without baking and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight then bake as directed, adding 10-15 extra minutes.
What if I don't have taco seasoning packets?
Make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to taste.