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15-Minute Dump-and-Bake Taco Casserole - Fast, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup instant rice (white or brown)
  • 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn (no need to thaw)
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning, or 3 tablespoons homemade
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese (or cheddar + Monterey Jack)
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (plus extra for serving, optional)
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (optional but great for crunch)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)
  • Optional add-ins: 1 cup cooked and crumbled ground beef, turkey, or shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 diced bell pepper; sliced black olives; pickled jalapeños

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
  2. Add the base ingredients: In the dish, add instant rice, black beans, frozen corn, salsa, diced tomatoes with green chiles (with juices), and broth.
  3. Season it up: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning. If using onion, bell pepper, or cooked meat, add those now.
  4. Mix directly in the dish: Stir everything until the rice is evenly distributed and the seasoning looks well combined.
  5. Top and bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 10 minutes. This lets the rice absorb liquid quickly.
  6. Add cheese: Remove foil, stir once to loosen, then sprinkle cheese evenly over the top. Add a handful of crushed tortilla chips if you like a crispy layer.
  7. Finish baking: Return to the oven uncovered for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rice is tender.
  8. Garnish and serve: Let it stand for 2–3 minutes. Top with cilantro, extra chips, and a squeeze of lime. Serve with sour cream, avocado, or hot sauce if you like.