If you’re craving a comforting meal that brings together bold taco flavors with the hearty goodness of Rice-A-Roni, then this Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe is your answer. It’s a fantastic fusion that combines the zesty notes of seasoned ground beef, tender Spanish rice, creamy soup, and melty cheese into one satisfying dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is as easy to assemble as it is delicious, making it a new go-to favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe is in its simple, accessible ingredients that each play a special role in creating that rich, layered flavor and comforting texture. From the savory taco-seasoned beef to the creamy sour cream and hearty beans, every item is essential to the final magic.
- Spanish rice Rice-A-Roni (1 box): The flavorful rice blend sets a perfect base with its golden color and subtle spices.
- Butter (2 Tbsp): Adds richness and helps toast the rice to a beautiful golden brown.
- Water (2 cups plus ¼ cup): Hydrates the rice and mixes with taco seasoning for that signature taste.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5-oz): Brings in freshness and a slight tang, enhancing the rice’s flavor.
- Ground beef (1¼ lb): The hearty protein forms the savory backbone of this casserole.
- Taco seasoning (1 packet, 1-oz): Packs in the iconic Southwest spice and aroma.
- Salsa (½ cup): Adds a saucy, slightly spicy element that keeps every bite exciting.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5-oz): Gives the casserole creamy texture and moistness without overpowering flavors.
- Sour cream (8-oz container): Introduces tangy creaminess that balances the spices beautifully.
- Black beans (1 can, 15-oz, drained and rinsed): Provides protein, fiber, and a earthy taste for depth.
- Mexican cheese blend (2 cups shredded): Melts perfectly on top creating a luscious, golden crust.
How to Make Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by melting butter in a skillet, then add the Spanish rice Rice-A-Roni. Toast it over medium-high heat until it turns a delightful golden brown, which enhances the nutty flavor and ensures a wonderful texture for your casserole base.
Step 2: Cook the Rice Mixture
Slowly stir in 2 cups water, the seasoning packet included in the Rice-A-Roni box, and the diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low to let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and has soaked up all the delicious flavors.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
While the rice cooks, brown your ground beef in a separate skillet until fully cooked, then drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, ¼ cup water, and salsa. Let this simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Mix All Components Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the tender rice, taco-seasoned beef, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and black beans. This creamy, savory mixture is what turns this casserole into a hearty, flavor-packed meal.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spread this mixture evenly into a lightly sprayed 9×13-inch baking dish. Top generously with the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Bake uncovered in a preheated 350ºF oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or green onions atop the melted cheese right before serving. Add a dollop of guacamole or a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh, zesty contrast that cuts through the creamy richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp tortilla chips and fresh pico de gallo to add crunch and brightness. A simple side salad with avocado and a light vinaigrette also balances the dish’s weight for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra cheese or sliced jalapeños for a festive touch. Or layer this casserole over crispy tostada shells and top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes for a fun taco-inspired presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes for quick and satisfying lunches or dinners, as the flavors continue to deepen over time.
Freezing
This Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 20 minutes, to keep the cheese melty and the casserole moist. Alternatively, microwave individual portions but cover to retain moisture and avoid dryness.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even chicken works well and will make the casserole a bit leaner while still packing great flavor when mixed with the taco seasoning and salsa.
Is this casserole spicy?
The spice level is mild to moderate, largely dependent on your taco seasoning and salsa choice. You can easily adjust the heat by selecting mild or hot versions or adding extra jalapeños or chili powder.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for extra beans, diced veggies like bell peppers, or a meat alternative such as textured vegetable protein to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a dairy-free or homemade option, use cream of mushroom soup or a simple homemade roux-based sauce with your choice of broth and spices to keep the creamy texture intact.
How do I get a crispier top on the casserole?
Try broiling the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking to achieve a bubbly, golden, and slightly crispy cheese topping without drying out the rest of the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe truly brings together the best of Mexican-inspired flavors in a cozy, family-friendly format. It’s a dish that invites you to gather around the table and enjoy each comforting bite, whether for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this simple yet satisfying casserole in your recipe rotation!
Print
Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This Taco Rice-A-Roni Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, tangy salsa, black beans, and a cheesy Mexican rice base. Perfectly baked to golden, bubbly perfection, it’s an easy-to-make meal that serves a crowd and brings a delightful Tex-Mex twist to the dinner table.
Ingredients
Rice Mixture
- 1 (6.8-oz) box Spanish rice Rice-A-Roni
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 cups water
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
Taco Meat
- 1¼ lb ground beef
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup salsa
Casserole Mix
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Rice Mixture: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the Rice-A-Roni mixture and sauté, stirring frequently, until the rice turns golden brown, enhancing its flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer Rice: Slowly stir in 2 cups water, the seasoning packet from the rice box, and the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquids.
- Prepare the Taco Meat: While rice is cooking, brown the ground beef in a separate skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning, ¼ cup water, and salsa to the meat. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Remove from heat.
- Combine Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, seasoned taco meat, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and rinsed black beans. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Notes
- For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the taco meat mixture.
- Use low-fat sour cream to reduce calories without compromising creaminess.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking to develop deeper flavors.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven and often taste even better the next day.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the Rice-A-Roni for a gluten-free rice seasoning mix or plain rice with spices.
