Taco Rice Casserole

Name: Taco Rice Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (90/10); 1 Red Bell Pepper; 1 cup white rice; 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning; 1 can Black Beans (15 oz); 2 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Colby Jack Cheese; 1/2 cup Queso Fresco (topping)

by Taylor September 24, 2024

This easy taco casserole is a one-pot dinner made completely on the stovetop! Featuring seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, black beans, rice, and plenty of melty cheese, this easy Mexican-inspired dish is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of dinner guests

Taco Rice Casserole in a pan surrounded by kitchen towel, cilantro, and salsa

Ingredient Notes

Ground Beef—We used 90/10, but really any type of ground beef will add heartiness to this dish.
Rice—A long-grain white rice will cook to fluffy perfection.
Black Beans—A drained and rinsed can of beans will add tons of fiber and flavor.
Bell Pepper—I prefer to dice up a red bell pepper, but any color pepper will work.
Colby Jack Cheese—Shredded to ensure it evenly melts into your dish.
Queso Fresco—Adds a mild and salty creaminess to this otherwise rich dish.
Taco Seasoning—A premade packet or my homemade blend.
Chicken Broth—Keeps all your casserole ingredients moist as they simmer together.

Taco Casserole Ingredients: Ground Beef, Rice, Chicken Broth, Red bellpepper, Cheese, Seasoning, Black Beans

How to Make the Best Taco Casserole.

In a large skillet over medium heat, begin to brown your ground beef.
Add the diced bell peppers and continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink.

Ground Beef, Diced Red bell pepper in pan

3. Add the rice, taco seasoning, black beans, and chicken broth and give everything a good stir.

4. Cover the mixture and allow it to simmer until the rice is tender and fluffy.

5. Remove the lid and give the casserole another quick stir.

6. Top the ground beef mixture with the colby jack and queso fresco and let the cheese melt slightly before scooping, serving, and enjoying.

taco rice casserole in pan topped with cheese

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make this taco casserole in the oven?

Yes, but I will say that I find it easier to make this casserole on the stovetop. However, if you really want to bake this dish in the oven, you’ll still start by browning the ground beef and softening the red bell peppers on the stovetop. Mix the ground beef mixture with the rice, taco seasoning, black beans, and chicken broth and transfer to a casserole dish. Bake at 400°F for 35-45 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy. Top with cheese just before serving.

Does this taco casserole freeze well?

Yes! This taco casserole is a great make-ahead meal that you can easily store in the freezer and reheat later. I recommend baking the dish completely before allowing it to cool and covering it in a layer or two of plastic wrap. Then, simply pop the whole thing into the freezer. When stored properly, this taco casserole will stay good in the freezer for up to three months. Allow the frozen casserole to thaw in the fridge overnight before warming in the oven, serving, and enjoying!

Can I make taco casserole with meats other than ground beef?

Absolutely! If ground beef isn’t your thing, I recommend swapping out the beef for ground chicken or turkey. This simple ingredient swap shouldn’t change the way you cook this casserole and will result in a dish that’s still high protein, but has slightly fewer calories. Alternatively, you can skip the meat altogether and add some extra cooked veggies instead! Try using a trio of different colored bell peppers or add some softened onion, carrots, celery, corn, or zucchini.

What are Dishes that Pair Well with Taco Casserole?

Not sure what to serve with your taco casserole? Luckily, I find that this dish pairs well with a wide variety of sides. I always like to serve this Mexican-inspired dish alongside some tortilla chips, fresh salsa, and guacamole. I also always make sure to offer a steamed or roasted veggie on the side like broccoli or asparagus. Alternatively, you can go a less traditional route and serve this casserole alongside a garden or fruit salad and some toasty bread or warmed tortillas and my street corn dip

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Taco Casserole

Any leftover taco casserole can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to one week. Reheat your leftover casserole in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed to your liking. Top with your favorite taco toppings and enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Add some color and extra flavor to this taco casserole by topping it with your favorite taco toppings. Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, black olives, sour cream, guacamole, and hot sauce are a few of my favorites.
I enjoy eating this casserole all on its own, but if you’d like, you can use the finished dish as a filling for burritos, tacos, quesadillas, or enchiladas.
Don’t forget to drain the fat off your cooked beef before adding the remaining casserole ingredients. This will ensure that your finished dish isn’t too greasy or liquidy.

Taco rice casserole in bowl surrounded by spoons, towel, cilantro, and salsa

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