one-pot Mexican Rice Casserole

Here’s a delicious one-pot Mexican Rice Casserole recipe for you, along with a description:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced (optional for heat)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, diced red and green bell peppers, and jalapeno pepper (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
4. Add the corn kernels, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), long-grain white rice, vegetable broth, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
10. Serve the Mexican Rice Casserole warm with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.

Enjoy the flavorful and comforting one-pot Mexican Rice Casserole! It’s a satisfying meal on its own or can be served as a side dish alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired main course.