Name: Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups uncooked white rice; 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth; 1 cup store-bought or homemade red salsa, plus more for serving; 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided; 1 pound ground fresh chorizo; 1/2 white onion, finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup store-bought or homemade queso dip; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro; 1 Roma tomato, finely chopped; Sour cream; Hot sauce; Warm flour tortillas

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a warm, comforting meal that brings together bold flavors and cozy textures, this Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender rice soaked in rich broth and salsa, mingling with spicy chorizo and creamy beans, all crowned with a golden layer of melted cheddar and queso that oozes with every scoop. It’s an irresistible combination that promises to satisfy cravings and fill your kitchen with the most inviting aromas. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, savory and cheesy, making it a dish that everyone will rave about.

Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is key to crafting this flavorful dish. Each component plays a special role—from the spicy kick of ground chorizo, to the creamy richness of queso, to the tender rice that acts as the perfect base for all that wonderful texture and flavor.

Uncooked white rice: Soaking it first helps ensure fluffy, perfectly cooked grains that soak up all the delicious flavors.
Ground fresh chorizo: Adds smoky, spicy depth that makes the dish truly stand out.
White onion: Finely chopped for a slight sweetness and aromatic base.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
Garlic cloves: Brightens and enhances the savory notes with a punch of fragrance.
Pinto beans: Adds a creamy texture and earthy richness.
Low-sodium beef or vegetable broth: Infuses the rice with deep flavor without overwhelming it.
Red salsa: Provides a vibrant tang and a little subtle heat.
Taco seasoning packet: Combines cumin, chili powder, and other spices for authentic burrito flavor.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, rich pockets of cheesy goodness on top.
Queso dip: Adds extra creaminess and layers of flavor with every bite.
Fresh cilantro: Offers a burst of fresh, herbal brightness as a garnish.
Roma tomato: Adds color and a fresh, juicy contrast.
Sour cream, hot sauce, and warm flour tortillas: Perfect for serving and customizing each bite.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice

Step 1: Prep the rice

Start by soaking the uncooked white rice in warm water for about 10 minutes. This little step helps loosen the grains so they bake up nicely, fluffy but still tender, soaking in all the flavors later on. After soaking, drain the rice well and rinse until the water mostly runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2: Cook the chorizo

Preheat your oven to 375°. While it heats, cook the ground fresh chorizo in a skillet over medium heat, stirring now and then until it’s fully browned and no longer pink—around 7 minutes. This step is where that spicy, smoky flavor starts building. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chorizo to a large baking dish to await its cheesy, rice-filled friends.

Step 3: Sauté onions, garlic, and beans

In the same skillet, add finely chopped onion and sprinkle with part of your kosher salt to enhance its natural sweetness. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Then stir in garlic for just about a minute until you can smell that irresistible aroma. Lastly, add the drained pinto beans, seasoning again with the remaining salt to balance the flavors. Transfer this vibrant mixture to the baking dish with the chorizo.

Step 4: Combine rice mixture and bake

Now add your drained rice, broth, red salsa, and taco seasoning directly to the baking dish. Stir everything well to marry those flavors in every bite. Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 45 to 50 minutes, stirring halfway through to make sure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs that rich, spicy broth perfectly.

Step 5: Add the cheese and broil

Once the rice is tender and the dish is bubbling with warmth, switch your oven to broil. Remove the foil and spread shredded cheddar and creamy queso dip generously on top. Keep a close eye as the cheese melts, browns lightly, and forms a bubbly, irresistible crust—this only takes 2 to 3 minutes but elevates the dish to another level of comfort food heaven.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Finish with a scattering of juicy chopped Roma tomatoes and fragrant cilantro for pops of color and freshness. Serve the Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice with sour cream, hot sauce, and warm flour tortillas for a fun, interactive meal that your family or friends will absolutely love.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice

Garnishes

Don’t skip the fresh garnishes—they bring brightness and a fresh balance to the cheesy richness. Chopped cilantro adds a lovely herbal note, and diced Roma tomato brings a juicy, slightly sweet contrast. A dollop of cool sour cream and a few shakes of hot sauce round out each serving beautifully.

Side Dishes

Keep sides simple to let the Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice shine. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette or a platter of roasted vegetables pairs perfectly. If you want more carbs (because, who doesn’t love carbs?), serve with warm flour tortillas or crunchy tortilla chips for scooping up every last cheesy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn this into a burrito bowl by layering the mixture over lettuce and sprinkling on avocado slices. You can also stuff it inside warm tortillas and roll it up for easy handheld burritos. For parties, serve it buffet-style with toppings on the side so each guest can customize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before storing, make sure it’s cooled to room temperature to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When freezing, omit the fresh tomato garnish and cilantro, adding those fresh when you reheat.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If needed, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top before reheating for that fresh-melted taste. Adding a splash of broth or water helps keep the rice moist and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add nuttier flavor and more texture, but note that it requires a longer baking time and more liquid, so adjust accordingly.

Is chorizo spicy? Can I substitute it?

Fresh chorizo has a nice spicy kick, but mild versions are available or you can substitute with spicy breakfast sausage or ground beef with added chili powder for similar flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the chorizo and use vegetable broth, and add extra beans or sautéed veggies to keep it hearty and delicious.

What if I don’t have queso dip?

No worries! You can substitute with cream cheese mixed with shredded cheddar or a melted cheese sauce for similar creamy texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To amp up the heat, add extra hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or spicy salsa when mixing the rice and beans. Adjust to your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, and Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice does exactly that. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for anytime you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

Cheesy Baked Burrito Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal that combines tender white rice, spicy ground chorizo, pinto beans, and a blend of savory seasonings. Topped with melted cheddar and creamy queso, then garnished with fresh tomatoes and cilantro, this easy-to-make casserole brings the taste of Mexican-inspired burritos into a hearty baked rice dish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s served with warm flour tortillas, sour cream, and hot sauce for added zest.

Instructions

Soak and Rinse Rice: In a medium bowl, soak the uncooked white rice in warm water for 10 minutes. Then, drain the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under running water until the water runs mostly clear to remove excess starch.
Cook Chorizo: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place a rack in the center. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chorizo, stirring occasionally until it is no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chorizo to a 13″ x 9″ baking dish.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and season with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion starts to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 more minute.
Add Beans and Seasoning to Skillet: Stir in the drained pinto beans and season with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Then, transfer the mixture to the baking dish with the chorizo using a slotted spoon. Add the soaked and rinsed rice, broth, red salsa, and taco seasoning to the baking dish and stir well to combine. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
Bake the Burrito Rice: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is tender and cooked through.
Broil with Cheese: Turn the oven broiler on. Remove the foil from the baking dish and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and queso dip over the rice mixture. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and browned.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and top with finely chopped Roma tomato and fresh cilantro. Serve the cheesy baked burrito rice with sour cream, hot sauce, and warm flour tortillas on the side.

Notes

Soaking and rinsing the rice helps to achieve fluffier, less sticky rice in the casserole.
You can substitute ground beef or turkey for chorizo if preferred, but chorizo adds a distinctive spicy flavor.
For a spicier dish, add extra hot sauce or fresh jalapeños to the bake.
Use homemade salsa and queso for fresher flavor, or store-bought versions for convenience.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
For a gluten-free version, ensure your taco seasoning, broth, and tortillas are certified gluten-free.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired