1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Gather and prep all your ingredients as listed above to streamline the cooking process.
2. Sauté Vegetables and Spices:
- Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Rice and Liquids:
- Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for a couple of minutes to lightly toast the grains.
- Add the chicken or vegetable broth and the undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Rice:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is almost tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add Beans and Vegetables:
- Stir in the black beans, corn, and diced bell pepper. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until all the vegetables are heated through and the rice is completely cooked.
6. Add Cheese and Bake:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the rice mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Place in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and any additional toppings like diced avocados, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños.
- Serve hot as a main dish or a substantial side.
Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice Casserole:
- Rice Cooking: Make sure to keep the rice simmering gently; too high heat can cause it to burn at the bottom.
- Customization: This dish is very versatile. Feel free to add cooked ground beef, chicken, or even chorizo for extra protein.
- Cheese Choices: You can experiment with different types of cheese for different flavors and melting properties.
This Mexican rice casserole is not only delicious but also a comforting and colorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. Enjoy your cooking!