One-Pan Mexican Rice Casserole

Mexican Rice - Brown rice cooked with diced onion, red bell pepper, green chilies, corn, black beans, and a delicious combination of herbs and spices is topped with shredded vegan cheese and broiled until bubbly brown perfection! This Mexican rice is the perfect side to serve on taco Tuesday or even as a meal itself. 

Have you ever had Mexican rice? It's a really delicious dish that you can make at home with just a few simple ingredients. It's the perfect meal to throw together on a busy night, and it tastes so good too! I like to make mine with brown rice, black beans, and lots of colorful veggies.

Mexican food is a staple in my house. Whether we have tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, I always make a big skillet of vegan Mexican rice to go with it. It's easy to make and is always a hit with my family and friends. Plus, it's healthy and packed with protein and fiber. If you're looking for a delicious and hearty Mexican rice recipe, be sure to try this one out!

Why You'll Love This Vegan Mexican Rice Recipe

One-Pan- This recipe is made in just one pan, making it a breeze to clean up.

Quick and Easy- With minimal prep and easy-to-follow instructions, this Mexican rice recipe can be on the table in 30 minutes.

Family-Friendly- This recipe is perfect for the whole family. It can easily be made mild or spicy to please everyone.

Colorful- From red bell peppers, green chilies, yellow corn, and black beans, this rice is bursting with beautiful colors.

Hearty- This Mexican rice is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it filling and satisfying.

Customizable- Add your favorite veggies and toppings, then adjust the spice level to make this Mexican rice your own.

Equipment Needed To Make This Mexican Rice

• Large Oven-Safe Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Spoon for Mixing
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients For Vegan Mexican Rice

• Red Onion
• Olive Oil
• Cumin
• Chili Powder
• Smoked Paprika
• Salt
• Dried Oregano
• Red Bell Pepper
• Green Chilies
• Corn
• Black Beans
• Salsa
• Brown Rice
• Shredded Vegan Monterey Jack Cheese
• Shredded Vegan Cheddar Cheese
• Cilantro (Garnish)
• Green Onions (Garnish)

How To Make One-Pan Mexican Rice

Heat the oil, add the onions, and cook until transparent in a large oven-safe skillet. Stir in all the spices and let them simmer with the onions for a few minutes before adding the red peppers and green chilies. When the peppers are soft, stir in the rest of the dry ingredients. Simmer for a couple of minutes until everything is well coated and combined. Preheat your broiler to high; put on both kinds of cheese, then place the skillet under the broiler until golden brown on top. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and diced green onions.

What to Serve/Pair With Your Mexican Rice 

This Mexican rice is terrific, but it would also pair well with various other dishes. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Taco Salad- Serve this rice as a topper for your favorite taco salad.

Burrito Bowls- This Mexican rice would make a great addition to any burrito bowl.

Nachos- Top your favorite nachos with this flavorful rice for a quick and delicious meal.

Veggie Burgers- This rice would be a great addition to any veggie burger.

Soup- Add this rice to your favorite Mexican-style soup for a heartier meal.

Appetizer/Side Dish- Serve vegan Mexican rice with fresh garden salsa pico de gallo guacamole or tortilla chips.

Popular Substitutions & Additions

You can make a few substitutions and additions to customize Mexican rice to your liking. 

Substitutions:

Red onion- You could substitute white onion in this recipe if that's what you have on hand.

Bell pepper- Feel free to use any color of bell pepper you like or mix it up for an extra colorful dish.

Green chilies- You could use fresh diced green chilies or leave them out altogether.

Additions:

Jalapenos- If you like things spicy, feel free to add some diced jalapeno to this recipe.

Avocado- Avocado would make a great addition to this dish. Just add it on top when serving.

Lime juice- A squeeze of fresh lime juice would add a nice zesty flavor to this dish.

As you can see, there are many ways to customize this recipe to make it your own. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try and enjoy!

How To Reheat & Store One-Pan Mexican Rice With Black Beans

What Is The Best Way To Store Mexican Rice?

This Mexican rice is best stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

How Long Will Vegan Mexican Rice Last In The Fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, Mexican rice with black beans will last in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I Freeze This Mexican Rice With Black Beans?

Yes, you can freeze this rice! Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat as desired.

How To Reheat Mexican Rice?

There are a few different ways you can reheat this rice.

My preferred method is to reheat it on the stove over medium heat, occasionally stirring until heated through.

You could also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it a few times during cooking, so it heats evenly.

One-Pan Mexican Rice FAQs 

Do I Have To Use Black Beans?

No, you don't have to use black beans in this recipe. You could leave them out altogether or substitute another type of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans.

Is This Recipe Spicy? 

No, this recipe is not spicy. However, if you want to add a little spice, you could always add some diced jalapeno when cooking the onions and peppers or add them as a garnish.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe ahead of time. Simmer all ingredients together, cover, and put in the refrigerator until ready to eat. To cook, heat rice in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes before adding the shredded cheese and placing it in the broiler. 

Do I have to use brown rice?

No, you don't have to use brown rice. You could substitute white rice if that's what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use frozen corn in place of canned?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just add it in when you would add the fresh corn.

I don't have any green chilies. Is there something else I use instead?

Yes. If you don't have green chilies, you could leave them out or substitute diced jalapeno for a bit of spice.

Don't Forget To Come Back And Let Me Know How Your One-Pan Vegan Mexican Rice Turned Out!