The best meals are often the easiest ones those weeknight dinners you can throw together, pop into the oven, and serve straight from the dish. That’s exactly what this tex mex ground beef and rice bake delivers.
The first time I made it, I didn’t expect it to become a family favorite. The kitchen filled with the smell of cumin, onions, and melted cheese, and everyone asked for seconds before I’d even sat down. This recipe brings together everything you love about Tex-Mex cooking bold flavors, creamy textures, and minimal cleanup.
Table of Contents
Tex Mex Ground Beef and Rice Bake: The One-Dish Dinner You’ll Make Again
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper in olive oil until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning, garlic, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Mix in cooked rice, corn, and black beans. Add broth if the mixture seems dry.
- Transfer mixture to baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes if desired for a crispy cheesy top.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Why This Tex Mex Ground Beef and Rice Bake Works
A true one-pan wonder
No juggling pots or pans. This tex mex ground beef and rice bake combines beef, rice, veggies, and cheese in one dish. The rice soaks up all the savory juices, turning every bite into comfort food magic.
Flavor that satisfies
Seasoned ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and tangy tomatoes form the base. Then you add chili powder, cumin, and garlic for Tex-Mex depth. Melted cheese ties everything together for that irresistible oven-baked finish.
Ingredients & Why They Matter
| Ingredient | Purpose | Notes / Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (85/15 lean) | Protein base | Adds richness and flavor |
| Rice (long-grain or jasmine) | Filling starch | Precook or use minute rice for faster prep |
| Taco seasoning | Signature Tex-Mex flavor | Homemade mix or store-bought |
| Diced tomatoes (with green chiles) | Moisture & spice | Salsa works too |
| Corn & black beans | Color + texture | Optional but classic in Tex-Mex dishes |
| Onion & bell pepper | Aroma + sweetness | Use red, green, or both |
| Shredded cheese | Creamy topping | Cheddar or Monterey Jack melt best |
| Broth or water | Keeps rice moist | Adjust for consistency |
These ingredients layer perfectly for a tex mex ground beef and rice bake that’s hearty yet balanced.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Tex Mex Ground Beef and Rice Bake
- Preheat the oven.
Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the beef and veggies.
In a skillet, sauté onion and bell peppers in olive oil until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any fat. - Add Tex-Mex seasoning.
Stir in taco seasoning, garlic, and diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for a few minutes to combine. - Mix in rice, corn, and beans.
Add cooked rice, corn, and beans to the skillet. Stir in ½ cup broth if mixture looks dry. - Layer in baking dish.
Transfer mixture to the dish, spread evenly, and top with shredded cheese. - Bake uncovered.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil 2-3 minutes for a crispy top. - Cool slightly before serving.
Let rest 5 minutes for the layers to set before cutting.
Flavor Boosters You’ll Love
Your tex mex ground beef and rice bake is endlessly adaptable. Here are a few fun ways to make it your own:
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or hot Rotel for heat lovers.
- Creamy Comfort: Stir in sour cream or a few spoonfuls of cream cheese before baking.
- Cheesy Heaven: Use two layers of cheese one in the middle and one on top.
- Loaded Fiesta: Top baked casserole with diced avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of salsa before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for plant-based crumbles or more beans.
Every variation keeps that signature Tex-Mex warmth hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Texture
If you’ve ever had a soggy or dry casserole, you know texture matters. Here’s how to keep your tex mex ground beef and rice bake just right every time:
- Use pre-cooked rice so it doesn’t absorb too much moisture during baking.
- Drain canned ingredients like beans, corn, and tomatoes to prevent excess liquid.
- Bake uncovered so the cheese crisps and the edges caramelize.
- Rest before serving this allows the rice to set and flavors to settle.
- Reheat gently to avoid drying the cheese. A splash of broth restores the creaminess.
Follow these small steps, and your casserole will always have that perfect, spoon-worthy consistency.
What to Serve With It
Since this dish is hearty, pair it with lighter sides to balance the meal:
- Fresh garden salad with lime vinaigrette
- Roasted veggies or grilled zucchini
- Guacamole or pico de gallo
- Warm tortillas or garlic bread
- Simple black bean soup on cooler nights
- Sparkling lemonade or iced tea
The mix of fresh and savory sides keeps your tex mex ground beef and rice bake feeling vibrant and satisfying.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Store: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm covered in a 325°F oven until heated through, or microwave with a splash of broth for moisture.
This recipe reheats beautifully perfect for leftovers or meal prep lunches.
Conclusion
Simple ingredients. Big flavor. No stress.
That’s what this tex mex ground beef and rice bake is all about. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal, it brings comfort and color to the table every single time. Bake it once, and you’ll find it hard not to make it again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this tex mex ground beef and rice bake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed just add 5 extra minutes since it’s starting cold. This helps the flavors deepen overnight.
Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute either. For brown rice, cook it most of the way first because it takes longer in the oven. Quinoa adds a nutty texture and still blends beautifully with the seasoned ground beef and cheese.
How spicy is tex mex ground beef and rice bake?
The spice level is customizable. Start with mild taco seasoning or salsa for a family-friendly flavor. Add chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce if you want extra kick.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are the go-to choices for a creamy melt. For more Tex-Mex flair, use a Mexican blend or pepper jack. The key is freshly shredded cheese it melts smoother and gives your tex mex ground beef and rice bake that perfect gooey texture.
Can I make this recipe without canned soup?
Definitely. This casserole doesn’t rely on condensed soups. The combination of diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and melted cheese creates a natural creamy base without additives.
Why is my tex mex ground beef and rice bake watery?
That usually happens if the tomatoes or beans aren’t drained, or if you added too much broth. Make sure to drain canned ingredients well and bake uncovered to let moisture evaporate.
Can I freeze tex mex ground beef and rice bake after baking?
Yes! Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight and bake covered at 325°F until heated through. The flavor stays bold and the texture remains creamy.
What toppings go well on tex mex ground beef and rice bake?
Toppings make it even better! Add diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro before serving. These brighten the dish and enhance its Tex-Mex flavor profile.
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