Cheesy Tex-Mex Rice Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Tex-Mex Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist. The combination of ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and rice makes it filling, while the addition of sharp cheddar cheese creates a rich, melty topping that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, and the flavors blend beautifully, offering a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and spicy notes. Plus, this dish can be prepped ahead of time, making it perfect for busy nights.

The best part? It’s versatile, so you can customize it with your favorite toppings or add-ins. It's also affordable and will last for a few days, saving you time and money while still enjoying a flavorful meal!

Ingredients

• 1 box Rice a Roni Spanish rice
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1-2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Rice a Roni Spanish rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the can of Rotel (undrained) and combine everything together.
5. Mix in the prepared Rice a Roni until well combined.
6. Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the top with 1-2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
8. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use black beans or another protein alternative for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
• Rice Substitution: Swap out Rice a Roni for another type of Spanish rice or brown rice for a healthier twist.
• Toppings: Try topping the baked dish with sour cream, sliced avocado, or chopped cilantro for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual servings until hot.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or even pepper jack for an extra kick.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or use a spicier variety of Rotel for an extra spicy punch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Rice a Roni may contain gluten, so if you need a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free rice mix or make your own seasoned rice.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner protein option.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to add more vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or black beans to enhance the flavor and texture.

How do I know when the dish is done baking?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges of the dish may be lightly browned.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based stock.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or make two separate batches.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Cheesy Tex-Mex Rice Bake after it has cooled. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil before freezing.

Conclusion

Cheesy Tex-Mex Rice Bake is an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. With its hearty combination of beef, rice, and cheese, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you make it as-is or experiment with different variations, you can count on this dish to satisfy your cravings for something cheesy, savory, and filling. Try it tonight and enjoy leftovers for days!