Baked Burrito Casserole: Hearty Mexican-Inspired Beef and Cheese Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Burrito Casserole brings all the comforting flavors of a burrito into a one-pan, easy-to-make meal. It’s an incredibly flexible dish that you can customize based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. The hearty beef, gooey cheese, and refried beans create a filling and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. Plus, the layers make each bite full of textures and flavors, making it a dish your whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)

• 8 medium flour tortillas

• 1 can refried beans

• 1 cup salsa (your favorite brand or homemade)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Sour cream (for topping)

• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef Filling:

   • Brown the ground beef over medium heat in a large skillet.

   • Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.

   • Stir in the taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water, simmering until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

2. Assemble the Layers:

   • Spread a thin layer of salsa at the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

   • Place two tortillas over the salsa to cover the base.

   • Spread half of the refried beans on top, followed by half of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.

   • Repeat the layers, ending with tortillas on top, and spread the remaining salsa and cheese.

3. Bake:

   • Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes to keep it moist.

   • After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes for a crispy, golden cheesy top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Version: Substitute the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter take on the casserole.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a veggie-packed alternative.

• Spicy Version: Add diced green chilies or spicy salsa between the layers for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Make-Ahead Tips:

You can assemble the casserole but not bake it. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 20-30 extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes! Corn tortillas will work, but they may crumble a bit more compared to flour tortillas.

Q2: How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free tortillas and check that your taco seasoning and refried beans are gluten-free.

Q3: Can I make this casserole spicier?

Yes! Add jalapeños, spicy salsa, or chili flakes between layers to give it an extra kick.

Q4: How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 4 days.

Q5: What cheese melts the best for burrito casseroles?

Monterey Jack and cheddar are excellent choices for their smooth melt and flavor.

Q6: Can I add rice inside the casserole layers?

Yes, adding cooked Mexican rice between the layers can make the casserole heartier.

Q7: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef.

Q8: How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Q9: Can I use homemade refried beans?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade, go ahead and use them in place of canned beans.

Q10: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes! Assemble and freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just bake from frozen with additional cooking time.

Conclusion

Baked Burrito Casserole is a cozy, comforting meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make. Whether you're preparing it for a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this hearty Mexican-inspired dish will quickly become a favorite. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless customization options, this casserole is a must-try!