Name: Easy Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 (16-ounce) jar salsa, any flavor; 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons store-bought taco seasoning; 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese; 3 sliced green onions, white parts only; 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese (for topping); 3 sliced green onions, green parts only; Chopped fresh cilantro; Sliced or diced avocado; Sour cream

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 3 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting dish that bursts with flavor and comes together effortlessly, you will absolutely love this Easy Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe. This casserole combines tender rice, zesty salsa, hearty black beans, and melty cheese into a vibrant one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s a fantastic meatless option that never sacrifices on taste or satisfaction, making it one of my all-time favorites to whip up whenever I want something cozy, cheesy, and downright delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular dish shows five layers arranged side by side. Starting from the left, the first layer is a deep red chunky tomato sauce with visible bits of vegetables or meat. Next to it is a thick line of reddish-brown seasoning powder. The middle layer is made of shiny black beans, packed closely together. To the right of that is bright yellow corn, slightly piled on top of a layer of white rice that is partially visible beneath. The last layer, on the far right, is a small pile of chopped green onions with white and green parts mixed. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze because each one plays an important role in delivering those signature Mexican flavors and textures. From the satisfying starch of the rice to the savory depth of the beans and the spicy kick of the taco seasoning, you’ll see how simple staples come together in perfect harmony.

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: This is the base of the casserole, providing a fluffy, tender texture that absorbs all the savory flavors.
1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds a creamy, earthy element rich in protein and fiber.
1 cup frozen corn kernels: Sweet bursts of corn bring a lovely pop of color and texture.
1 16-ounce jar salsa (any flavor): Acts as the flavorful sauce that ties everything together with freshness and spice.
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Keeps the rice moist and infuses the casserole with extra savory goodness.
2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Cranks up the Mexican-inspired spices and adds that signature warmth.
1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese: Incorporated inside the casserole to melt throughout and infuse creaminess.
3 sliced green onions (white parts only): Stirred into the casserole for a mild onion flavor that compliments the dish beautifully.
1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese (for topping): Creates a golden, cheesy crust during baking that’s impossible to resist.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Base

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s perfectly ready for baking your casserole. This step sets the stage for the rice to cook evenly and the cheese to melt gloriously on top.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Your Casserole Dish

In a spacious casserole dish, add the uncooked rice, rinsed black beans, frozen corn kernels, and your chosen salsa. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly, add the first cup of shredded cheese, and scatter the white parts of the green onions over everything. Stir these ingredients thoroughly so the rice is fully coated and everything is evenly distributed. This careful mixing ensures that every bite will be bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Cover and Bake

Seal your dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the rice cook to tender perfection. Place it in the oven and bake, covered, for 50 minutes. This slow, gentle heat lets the rice soak up all those wonderful flavors from the broth, salsa, and beans.

Step 4: Check and Continue Baking if Needed

After 50 minutes, remove the casserole and lift the foil. Test the rice for doneness. If you find it still has a slight crunch, re-cover and continue baking, checking every 5 minutes. This patience pays off with beautifully tender rice that’s ready to be smothered with cheese.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Cheese Layer

Once the rice is cooked through, discard the foil and sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded Mexican-blend cheese evenly across the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 minutes. This step melts the cheese into a bubbling, golden crust that adds glorious texture and flavor.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Garnish

After removing the dish from the oven, allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This pause helps the casserole set up so it serves cleanly and holds together. Garnish with the green parts of the sliced green onions, some fresh chopped cilantro, creamy avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra freshness and richness.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe

A bowl filled with a layered dish consisting of a base layer of orange-red rice mixed with black beans and yellow corn, topped with melted yellow and white cheese that spreads unevenly over the rice, garnished with green cilantro and small slices of green onion. The bowl is white with visible ridges and placed on a wooden surface scattered with yellow tortilla chips, a wedge of lime, and a partial view of an avocado and a glass with lime inside. In the background, there is a white rectangular baking dish with similar rice and bean mixture partially covered with melted cheese. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes elevate this casserole from simple to spectacular. Bright green onions lend a mild zing and crunch, while cilantro provides herbal brightness. Creamy avocado slices introduce a silky contrast, and sour cream adds luscious tang that perfectly balances the warm spices.

Side Dishes

For a full meal, pair this casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. A side of warm corn tortillas or even crunchy tortilla chips adds a fun textural contrast and complements the Mexican-inspired flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole straight from the dish family-style for a convivial dinner. Alternatively, scoop out portions into individual ramekins and top each with fresh salsa or sliced jalapeños for a personalized touch. It’s equally fantastic scooped onto lettuce wraps for a lower-carb option that still delights the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers a delightful lunch or quick dinner option.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture locked in.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use your favorite vegan cheese alternative. The beans, rice, and veggies will still create a hearty, satisfying dish.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can, but brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll need to increase the baking time significantly and add more liquid to ensure the rice cooks fully.

Is it okay to use fresh salsa instead of jarred salsa?

Yes! Fresh salsa can add a zesty, bright flavor. Just make sure it’s not too watery or reduce other liquids slightly to prevent the casserole from getting soggy.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Definitely! Ground beef, chicken, or turkey can be browned and mixed in with the other ingredients to create a heartier, protein-packed version.

What type of cheese works best?

A Mexican-blend cheese is ideal for meltability and flavor, but you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix. Just pick cheeses that melt well for that ooey-gooey topping.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those rare dishes that perfectly blends simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a satisfying solo meal, it’s a dependable winner that’s sure to bring smiles around the table. Give it a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe rotation!