Taco rice casserole is an easy-to-make dinner idea and freezer-friendly. It is a great recipe to stretch your meat and is accessible on a budget.
Do you yearn for a dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the coziness of a casserole? You need to look no further because we have you covered! In this article, we will talk you through preparing a Taco Rice Casserole that will make your taste receptors dance with delight.
What Is Taco Rice Casserole?
Before we proceed with the recipe, let’s define Taco Rice Casserole. It is a delectable fusion of Mexican and American cuisine, combining the zesty flavor of tacos with the heartiness of a traditional casserole. This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting dish with a twist.
Ingredients
To make the ideal Taco Rice Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Base:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 1 diced red bell pepper
- 2 minced cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of rice cooked
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1 jar of black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup of salsa
- 1 cup of cheddar cheese shreds
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced greens onion
- Freshly chopped cilantro
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapenos
Directions
Let’s begin preparing!
Step 1: Brown The ground beef
Prepare by heating a big pan over medium heat. Add the minced beef and brown it until it is no longer pink. Ensure that you pulverize it while it cooks.
Step 2: Add The Aromatics
Add sliced onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet along with the cooked beef. Sauté the vegetables for a few minutes until tender and aromatic.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
It would be best to sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure that the herb is evenly distributed and permeates all the ingredients.
Step 4: Combine With Rice And Other Ingredients
Combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn kernels, and salsa in a large mixing basin. Mix in the beef and vegetable mixture with seasonings. It will serve as the savory foundation for your Taco Rice Casserole.
Step 5: Layer And Bake
Move the mixture to a casserole dish that has been greased. Sprinkle cheddar cheese shreds on top. Protect the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175 degrees Celsius) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 6: Garnish And Serve
After removing the Taco Rice Casserole from the oven, garnish it with sliced green onions, minced fresh cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeno slices, if desired.
Time-Saving Tips:
To save time, use a small food blender or processor to chop onions and bell peppers swiftly and efficiently.
If you do not have one, I strongly advise acquiring one. It saves so much time and makes cooking so quick and straightforward.
I typically chop the complete vegetable and freeze the remainder. Removing the diced onion from the freezer is convenient for recipes.
It is how I prepare meals. It’s so simple and rapid, and it helps get dinner on the table quickly.
What To Serve With Taco Rice Casserole Recipe?
This taco casserole is delectable when served alone. But you can easily add one of these side dishes to create a complete entrée.
1. Homemade Queso: This homemade queso is a crowd favorite. Offer with tortilla chips as a side dish; it is also delectable and served on the casserole.
2. Flour Tortilla: Serve this taco casserole in a flour tortilla. Wrap it up for a simple burrito concept.
3. Salad: This Taco Casserole can also be served as a taco salad. Place some green lettuce on a plate, followed by the delectable layers of the taco casserole.
How To Store leftover Taco Rice Casserole Recipe?
Refrigerate the remains in an air-tight container. You will keep this taco casserole for roughly five days. It would make a delicious lunch if preserved in individual containers the next day.
Instructions for Freezing Taco Rice Casserole
This Taco Casserole is no exception; casseroles are notoriously simple to make in advance and freeze. To freeze it:
- Bake it thoroughly without cheese in a container that you can freeze according to the recipe’s instructions.
- Allow the fully cooked casserole to cool momentarily at room temperature (remember, without cheese) before refrigerating to cool completely.
- Double-wrap the container with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer.
Once frozen, consume within three to four months.
To defrost the casserole adequately, plan at least 12 hours before you intend to reheat it. The ideal method for defrosting food is overnight in the refrigerator. It is optimal for food safety and preserving the flavor and integrity of the food.
Once the casserole has been defrosted, add the recommended amount of cheese, if desired, and bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 min or till the center of the food reaches at least 165 °F.
You’ve successfully created a scrumptious Taco Rice Casserole that’s bound to become a family favorite. This delectable combination of flavors and textures will satisfy your cravings and make everyone at the table grin.
Thank you for reading….