Name: Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked); 2 cups beef broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup corn kernels; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)

When you need a dinner that’s hearty, filling, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table, Mexican Ground Beef Casserole with Rice delivers every time. This dish combines bold Mexican-inspired flavors with simple pantry staples to create a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that feels both comforting and exciting.

With seasoned ground beef, tender rice, tomatoes, beans, corn, and plenty of melted cheese, this casserole is a full meal in one dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or anytime you want something warm and familiar without spending hours in the kitchen.

What truly makes this recipe shine is its balance. The beef adds richness, the rice makes it filling, the vegetables bring color and texture, and the seasoning ties everything together into a deeply satisfying bite.

Why This Casserole Is a Family Favorite

This recipe checks all the boxes for a dependable go-to dinner:

One-dish meal – Protein, carbs, and veggies all together
Budget-friendly – Made with affordable pantry staples
Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for meal prep
Customizable – Easy to adjust spice level and ingredients
Comforting and filling – Ideal for hungry families

It’s the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.

What Makes It “Mexican-Style”?

This casserole draws inspiration from Mexican flavors rather than aiming for strict authenticity. Ingredients like taco seasoning, tomatoes, beans, corn, and cheese come together to create a familiar Tex-Mex style profile—savory, slightly spicy, and comforting.

The goal is bold flavor with everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Topping

2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese or cheddar
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Jalapeño slices (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Season the Mixture

Stir taco seasoning into the beef mixture, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

3. Add Rice and Liquids

Add uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes (with juices) to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

4. Add Beans and Corn

Stir in black beans and corn, distributing evenly throughout the mixture.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.

6. Bake

Cover tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

7. Add Cheese

Remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven uncovered. Bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro or jalapeños if desired.