Stove Top Taco Casserole
Stove top taco casserole combines seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and corn for a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 12-inch skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef and chopped onions; drain well.
- Stir in uncooked quick-cooking rice, picante sauce, water, undrained whole tomatoes, Mexicorn, and tomato paste.
- Bring to a boil; boil for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat.
- Cover and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also swap out the Mexicorn for regular corn or black beans for added protein. If you prefer a spicier dish, try using hot picante sauce or adding diced jalapeños. Make sure to stir occasionally while boiling to prevent sticking, ensuring even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocados, or shredded cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider making a Mexican-Style Pot Roast as a main dish or a zesty Mexican Cheese Casserole to accompany it.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes. For best results, add a splash of water to keep the casserole moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stove Top Taco Casserole contains roughly 547 calories, with 25g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time and possibly the liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so adjust the boiling time accordingly, ensuring the rice is tender before serving.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a meat substitute, like crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat. You can also add beans for added protein and texture while keeping all other ingredients the same.
Can I freeze the taco casserole for later?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).