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Taco Rice Casserole

Taco Rice Casserole: Easy Comfort Food for Family Nights

Taco Rice Casserole is a delightful fusion of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese, perfect for a budget-friendly family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Main Dish
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Can replace with shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is best, but garlic powder (1 tsp) works as a substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder Adjust quantity to tailor the heat for your family’s taste.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin No direct substitute, but you can omit if needed.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Swap with regular paprika in a pinch.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Italian seasoning works as a substitute if necessary.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Season to your preference.
  • 2 cups Uncooked Long-Grain White Rice Must be uncooked; brown rice can be used with adjusted cooking time.
  • 1 can Canned Diced Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can replace canned if desired.
  • 1 can Chopped Green Chilies Omit or replace with bell peppers for a milder version.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Use chicken or vegetable broth for lighter notes.
  • 2 cups Shredded Colby Jack Cheese Feel free to substitute with cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend.
For Optional Toppings
  • 2 cups Shredded Lettuce Adds freshness and crunch to each serving.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be a great, healthier swap.
  • 1 cup Avocado/Guacamole Elevates flavor and texture while offering healthy fats.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Brings brightness and a burst of flavor; feel free to skip if not preferred.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch casserole dish
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef and diced yellow onion. Sauté for 7-8 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute.
  4. Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, chopped green chilies, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all components.
  5. Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake for 45-50 minutes until rice is tender.
  6. Remove the foil, fluff the rice with a fork, and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes until cheesy and bubbly.
  7. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This Taco Rice Casserole is versatile for personal tastes, allowing ingredient swaps as needed.

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