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One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole: Quick & Flavorful Dinner!

In our fast-paced lives, finding time to prepare a wholesome, delicious meal can often feel like a daunting task. However, with the delightful One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole, you can whip up a quick and flavour-packed dinner that the whole family will love—all while minimising the washing up! This recipe showcases the vibrant flavours of Mexican cuisine and is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your own One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (choose your favourite colour!)
• 400g can of chopped tomatoes
• 400g can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 200g long-grain rice, rinsed
• 500ml vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 150g sweetcorn (canned or frozen)
• 150g grated cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Method

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for a further 2-3 minutes until softened.

2. Add the Base Ingredients: Pour in the can of chopped tomatoes, black beans, and sweetcorn. Stir to combine the ingredients, then add the rinsed rice, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, chilli powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Cook the Casserole: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes. Occasionally check and stir to ensure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If needed, add a splash more water or broth.

4. Finish with Cheese: Once the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Cover again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, and serve your One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole hot, garnished with fresh coriander and lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Not only is this casserole simple to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Swap the black beans for kidney beans, add diced courgettes or mushrooms for extra vegetables, or use chicken or minced meat if you prefer a heartier version.

Another fantastic aspect of this dish is its ability to serve a crowd. Perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping, a single batch can yield generous portions, making it an economical choice for feeding a large family or for saving leftovers for a ready-made lunch the next day.

A Healthier, Delicious Option

This One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is packed with protein and fibre, making it a nutritious choice for dinner. With its abundant vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a great way to ensure that you’re getting essential nutrients while satisfying your taste buds with a comforting and aromatic meal.

In conclusion, the One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is not just quick and easy; it’s a delightful fusion of flavours that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Give it a try, and discover how this simple dish can bring warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table!

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