This Spanish Rice Bake is a hearty and flavorful casserole that combines lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rice, all simmered in a sweet and spicy sauce. Topped with melted Cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro, it’s a comforting dish perfect for family dinners.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
½ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup chopped green bell pepper
1 (14.5 ounce) can canned tomatoes
1 cup water
¾ cup uncooked long grain rice
½ cup chile sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 pinch ground black pepper
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Cook the ground beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Combine ingredients
- Transfer the cooked beef to a large pot over medium-low heat. Stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, canned tomatoes (with liquid), water, uncooked rice, chile sauce, salt, brown sugar, ground cumin, Worcestershire sauce, and ground black pepper.
Simmer the mixture
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Transfer to baking dish
- Pour the rice and beef mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
Bake
- Cover the casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Add cheese topping
- Remove the cover and sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 431
Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 890mg
Total Carbohydrates: 41g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 6g
Protein: 28g

The History of Spanish Rice

Despite its name, Spanish Rice is not originally from Spain. The dish is actually a variation of Mexican-style rice, also known as arroz rojo or “red rice.” It is a staple in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, where it is typically cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices to create a flavorful, fluffy rice dish.

Rice was introduced to Mexico by Spanish explorers in the 1500s after being brought from Asia. Over time, Mexican cooks adapted rice into their cuisine, combining it with native ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, and spices. This fusion led to the development of what is now commonly called Spanish Rice.

The baked version of Spanish Rice is a modern adaptation, particularly popular in the United States, where casseroles have long been a staple of home cooking. By combining the elements of traditional Spanish Rice with ground beef, cheese, and a baking process, this dish takes on a heartier and more substantial form.

Why Spanish Rice Bake is So Popular

Spanish Rice Bake has gained popularity for several reasons, making it a favorite among home cooks.

Easy to Make – The recipe requires minimal effort and is perfect for those who want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Budget-Friendly – Made with simple, affordable ingredients like rice, ground beef, and canned tomatoes, this dish is cost-effective while still being filling and delicious.
Great for Meal Prep – Spanish Rice Bake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent option for busy families.
Customizable – It can be easily adapted with different proteins, vegetables, and spice levels to suit individual tastes.
Kid-Friendly – The mild flavors and cheesy topping make it a hit with kids, while adults can enjoy the dish with extra seasonings or toppings.

Different Variations of Spanish Rice Bake

One of the best aspects of Spanish Rice Bake is its versatility. You can modify the recipe in numerous ways to create a version that suits your preferences.

Vegetarian Spanish Rice Bake – Substitute the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or lentils for a meat-free version that is still packed with flavor.
Spicy Spanish Rice Bake – Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or cayenne pepper for extra heat. A drizzle of hot sauce before serving can also enhance the spice level.
Cheesy Spanish Rice Bake – Increase the amount of cheese by adding a layer of Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack cheese for an even richer and creamier texture.
Chicken Spanish Rice Bake – Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked diced chicken breast for a lighter but still satisfying version.
Seafood Spanish Rice Bake – Incorporate shrimp or chunks of white fish for a unique twist that pairs well with the tomato and rice flavors.
Tex-Mex Style Spanish Rice Bake – Mix in taco seasoning, corn, and black beans for a Tex-Mex-inspired variation that pairs well with sour cream and guacamole.

Tips for Making the Best Spanish Rice Bake

To achieve the perfect Spanish Rice Bake, follow these expert cooking tips:

Use Long-Grain Rice – Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati works best, as it stays fluffy and doesn’t become mushy during baking. Avoid short-grain rice, which tends to become sticky.
Sauté the Aromatics First – Cooking the onions, garlic, and bell peppers before adding them to the dish enhances their flavors and prevents them from tasting raw.
Brown the Meat Properly – If using ground beef, ensure it’s fully browned and drained of excess grease before combining it with the other ingredients. This prevents the casserole from becoming too oily.
Use the Right Amount of Liquid – The key to soft and tender rice is adding just enough liquid to allow the rice to cook fully while absorbing all the flavors.
Cover While Baking – Keeping the dish covered for most of the baking time helps trap steam and ensures even cooking. Uncovering it near the end allows the cheese to brown and develop a golden crust.
Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to scoop and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Spanish Rice Bake is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with various sides and toppings to enhance its flavor.

Fresh Salad – A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.
Tortilla Chips – Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a touch of tang.
Avocado or Guacamole – Creamy avocado or homemade guacamole pairs beautifully with the tomato-based flavors.
Pico de Gallo – A fresh tomato and onion salsa adds a bright and zesty contrast.
Warm Tortillas – Enjoy the dish with soft flour or corn tortillas to scoop up the rice mixture.

Health Benefits of Spanish Rice Bake

While Spanish Rice Bake is known for its comforting taste, it also offers some nutritional benefits.

Good Source of Protein – The ground beef or chicken provides essential protein for muscle growth and energy.
Rich in Fiber – Rice, tomatoes, and bell peppers contribute dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals – Ingredients like onions, garlic, and tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that support immune health.
Customizable for Healthier Options – By using lean meats, brown rice, and reduced-fat cheese, you can make a healthier version of this dish without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Spanish Rice Bake is a classic, crowd-pleasing casserole that brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious, comforting meal. Its origins in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine give it a rich, well-seasoned flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides.

The versatility of this dish makes it a favorite for home cooks who want something easy, affordable, and family-friendly. Whether you prefer it spicy, extra cheesy, or loaded with vegetables, Spanish Rice Bake can be adapted to suit any taste.

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