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Taco Rice Casserole

A hearty and flavorful casserole packed with classic taco ingredients, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (or chicken/turkey)
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 ¼ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4-ounce can chopped green chilies
  • 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack or Mexican blend)
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sour cream, avocado or guacamole, chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Brown the ground beef (or chicken/turkey) in a large skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and toast the spices for about a minute.
  5. Combine the uncooked rice, canned tomatoes (with juice), chopped green chilies, and beef broth. Stir together.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove from the heat.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  8. Add half of the shredded cheese on top and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
  9. Bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until melted and bubbly.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to three months.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco rice casserole, family recipe, easy dinner, Mexican dish, comfort food