ONE POT MEXICAN RICE CASSEROLE

Step 3: Combine the Remaining Ingredients

Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (including the tomato juice from the can). Mix everything together.
Pour in the broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in liquid. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Check occasionally and stir gently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top. Cover the pan again and let it sit for about 5 minutes so the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve your Mexican Rice Casserole hot, garnished with:

Freshly chopped cilantro
A squeeze of lime juice
A dollop of sour cream
Sliced jalapeños for added heat
Avocado or guacamole on the side

It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or warm flour tortillas for a complete Tex-Mex experience.

🔄 Variations and Tips

Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and double up on the beans or add sautéed bell peppers and zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add diced green chilies or chipotle in adobo for smokiness.
Make it Creamier: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream before adding the shredded cheese.

🧊 Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
It also freezes well—just cool completely and freeze in individual portions.

❤️ Final Thoughts

The One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food meets convenience. It’s bold, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re craving something cozy or need a reliable meal to feed a crowd, this casserole will quickly become a regular in your recipe rotation. Plus, who doesn’t love a cheesy, hearty meal with minimal cleanup?

Want to spice it up your own way or try a vegetarian twist? Let me know, and I’ll help you remix it!