Taco Rice A Roni Casserole

Every time I make this Taco Rice A Roni Casserole, I’m flooded with memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, filling the kitchen with warm, savory aromas that are simply irresistible. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and heartiness, making it a go-to comfort food for any occasion. When I was younger, my mom would whip this up for dinner after a long day, and now I find myself doing the same for my own family. We often enjoy it on busy weeknights, and it never fails to satisfy those hunger pangs after an exhausting day. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers on taste, with layers of flavors that just meld together beautifully. I love how versatile this dish is too; you can tweak it to match your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, I guarantee that everyone will be asking for seconds!

Shopping List for Taco Rice A Roni Casserole

When it comes to making the Taco Rice A Roni Casserole, the ingredients are what truly make this dish shine. Each element plays a vital role in creating the enticing flavors and comforting textures that define this recipe. The combination of Spanish rice, taco seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and cheese melds beautifully to create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

• 1 (6.8-oz) box Spanish rice Rice-A-Roni: This is the base that adds flavor and texture, giving the casserole its hearty feel.
• 2 Tbsp butter: This adds richness and helps to sauté the rice, enhancing its flavor.
• 2 cups water: Necessary for cooking the rice to fluffy perfection.
• 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes: Provides moisture and a fresh burst of flavor.
• 1¼ lb ground beef: A key protein that makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
• 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning: This brings all the zesty flavors of taco night into the dish.
• ¼ cup water: Added to help the seasoning blend well with the meat.
• ½ cup salsa: Adds a kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Makes the casserole creamy and binding all the ingredients together.
• 1 (8-oz) container sour cream: Adds tanginess and a creamy texture.
• 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides fiber and a hearty texture.
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: This melty topping brings everything together and adds a delicious cheesy goodness.

Recipe Steps for Taco Rice A Roni Casserole

Let’s dive into the cooking process for the Taco Rice A Roni Casserole. You’ll find that each step builds on the last, resulting in a scrumptious dish that’s sure to impress. Follow along, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This is essential to ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and the cheese gets all bubbly and delicious. While the oven is warming up, you can get your baking dish ready. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the Spanish rice from the Rice-A-Roni box. Sauté the rice for about 5 to 7 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown color. You’ll start to notice a delicious aroma filling your kitchen, which is always a good sign!
3. Now, slowly stir in 2 cups of water, the seasoning packet from the Rice-A-Roni, and the diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn; you want it tender but not mushy.
4. While the rice is cooking, grab another skillet and brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula so it cooks evenly. As it cooks, you’ll see it turn from pink to a nice brown color. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
5. After draining, add the taco seasoning, ¼ cup water, and salsa to the browned meat. Stir well to combine everything, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a savory filling.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice mixture, the seasoned ground beef, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and the rinsed black beans. Stir everything together until well combined. You should see an enticing blend of colors and textures, and the mixture will be creamy and hearty.
7. Spread the combined mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Make sure to smooth it out so it bakes evenly. Once that’s done, it’s time to top it off! Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend generously over the top. More cheese equals more happiness, right?
8. Now, pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is hot throughout. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely divine, so be prepared for everyone to come running!
9. Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop out portions. Serve it warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Make It Your Own

The beauty of the Taco Rice A Roni Casserole is its versatility. Here are some great tips to customize it to suit your taste:

• Substitutions: You can easily use ground turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option instead of ground beef. This keeps it hearty while accommodating different diets.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add fresh diced vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra color and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different kinds of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a classic taste.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or green onions for garnish to enhance the freshness of the dish.
• Serving Style: This casserole can be served with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top for an extra luxurious feel.
• Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, assemble the casserole the night before and bake it fresh the next day!
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before baking.

What to Serve Alongside Taco Rice A Roni Casserole

When it comes to serving the Taco Rice A Roni Casserole, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here are some fantastic ideas:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the casserole. It helps balance the meal and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Guacamole and Salsa: Serve with a side of guacamole and fresh salsa for an extra zesty kick. The creaminess of the guacamole complements the casserole perfectly.
• Warm Tortillas: Soft flour or corn tortillas can be offered on the side for those who want to scoop the casserole with a tortilla for a fun twist.
• Rice or Beans: You might consider a side of seasoned rice or refried beans to enhance the Mexican flavors.
• Occasion Suggestions: This casserole is great for family dinners, casual gatherings, or game day celebrations. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave!
• Seasonal Pairings: During cooler months, this casserole makes for a cozy meal. Serve it alongside warm, spiced apple cider for a complete comfort experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Taco Rice A Roni Casserole is truly a beloved dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite. You won’t regret it!

Taco Rice A Roni Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Taco Rice A Roni Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and filled with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Try it tonight!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 525

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 box Spanish rice Rice-A-Roni
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 cups water
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1.25 lb ground beef
• 1 package taco seasoning
• 0.25 cup water
• 0.5 cup salsa
• 1 can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
• 1 container sour cream
• 1 can black beans
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

Equipment

• 10-inch Skillet
• 8-qt Mixing Bowl
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. To prepare rice, melt butter in a skillet. Add rice mixture. Sauté over medium-high heat until golden brown.
3. Slowly stir in water, seasoning packet, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes, until the rice is tender.
4. While the rice is cooking, brown ground beef in another skillet. Drain. Add taco seasoning, water, and salsa. Simmer for 5 minutes, until liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, taco meat, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and black beans.
6. Spread mixture into prepared pan. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Notes

• Substitution: You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
• Preference: I used a box of Spanish Rice-A-Roni in this recipe. I tried the casserole with Mexican Rice-A-Roni and did not like it due to too much orzo in the mix and not enough rice to hold up.
• Spiciness: For a spicier dish, substitute Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles for the plain diced tomatoes.
• Fresh Additions: Feel free to add fresh onions, bell peppers, and olives to the casserole.
• Storage: Can Taco Rice A Roni Casserole be made in advance? Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
• Freezing: Can Taco Rice A Roni Casserole be frozen? Yes! Assemble the casserole and let it cool completely. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze.

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Meet Lucy Bennett

I’m passionate about food that brings people together. I love creating recipes that are vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. I’ve cooked and tested this dish in my own kitchen to make sure it works perfectly for you. Enjoy!