Cheesy Burrito Rice Bake Recipe
Table of Contents
Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor? The Cheesy Burrito Rice Bake is the perfect dish. Combining the savory taste of seasoned beef, beans, rice, and melty cheese, this casserole-style recipe offers all the flavors of a burrito in a convenient, oven-baked form. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Cheesy Burrito Rice Bake Recipe Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream and avocado slices for serving
Recipe Directions
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the rice and toast it lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the beef mixture over the rice, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the beef mixture, ensuring it’s well-covered.
- If using, add sliced black olives and chopped green onions on top of the cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with sour cream and avocado slices on the side.
Recipe Tips
- If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for hot salsa and add some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. For a milder version, stick with mild salsa and omit any additional spicy ingredients.
- For a meat-free version, simply omit the ground beef and double up on the beans. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Final Note
The Cheesy Burrito Rice Bake is a versatile, delicious meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect recipe to feed a hungry family or make ahead for busy weeknights. Enjoy!
Looking for more delicious recipes to make for your family? Have a look through our recipe collection!
