Taco Rice Casserole

This taco rice casserole is a great go-to when you want something filling without a lot of prep. Everything cooks together in one dish, so there’s less cleanup at the end.

The rice soaks up all the flavor from the beef, tomatoes, and seasoning as it bakes. Top it with a little sour cream and cilantro, and dinner is ready to serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy weeknight dinner: This casserole comes together quickly with simple pantry staples and minimal prep.
• One dish meal: It combines protein, rice, beans, and vegetables in one baking dish for easy serving.
• Family-friendly flavor: Taco seasoning, melted cheese, and familiar ingredients make it a hit for both kids and adults.
• Great for leftovers: The casserole reheats well, making it a practical option for lunch or dinner the next day.
• Customizable toppings: You can finish each serving with cilantro, sour cream, or other favorite taco toppings.

Taco Rice Casserole Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Whole kernel corn, drained
• Black beans, drained and rinsed
• Diced tomatoes
• Diced green chiles, drained
• Minute rice
• Water
• Taco seasoning
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Cilantro, optional
• Sour cream, optional

How To Make Taco Rice Casserole

This visual guide is helpful for making this recipe. For the full printable recipe with measurements, scroll to the bottom of the post.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×13 baking dish. Dice the onion and chop the cilantro.

Cook the ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, green chiles, rice, water, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined.

Fold in half of the shredded cheese. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

Bake for 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Top with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream, if desired.

Taco Rice Casserole FAQs

Can I make Taco Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it is going into the oven cold.

Can I use a different type of rice?
This recipe is best with minute rice since it cooks quickly in the casserole. Regular rice may need extra liquid and a longer baking time.

Can I swap the ground beef for another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken works well in this recipe and can be used in the same way as ground beef.

How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What toppings go well with Taco Rice Casserole?
Cilantro and sour cream are great options, and you can also add sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, or crushed tortilla chips.