Baked burrito casserole has a way of making even the busiest weeknights feel like a warm hug. I remember one particularly chaotic Tuesday when my kids had soccer practice, homework, and I was just trying to get dinner on the table without resorting to takeout. I threw together this layered casserole, and the aroma of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and warm tortillas filled the kitchen, instantly calming the chaos. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting Mexican casserole dish that delivers layer by layer comfort, making everyone feel happy and full. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Burrito Casserole
- Incredibly flavorful with savory beef and gooey cheese
- Super fast prep time, making it an easy burrito casserole
- Packed with protein and fiber for a satisfying meal
- Budget-friendly using common pantry staples
- A definite crowd-pleaser for the whole family
- Perfect for busy evenings as a quick weeknight burrito casserole
- Comforting and hearty, it’s pure deliciousness
- Minimal cleanup with its one-pan design
Ingredients for Baked Burrito Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious ground beef burrito casserole. I love that most of these are pantry staples, making it super accessible for any night of the week. The combination of ingredients creates that classic, comforting flavor profile that everyone adores.
- 1 lb Ground Beef – I like to use 80/20 for good flavor.
- 1 small White Onion, chopped – adds a nice aromatic base.
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning – for that essential savory kick.
- 2 cans Refried Beans – these create a creamy, binding layer.
- 1 cup Water – helps thin out the bean mixture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Mushroom Soup – this adds incredible richness and moisture.
- 1 cup Sour Cream – for a cool, tangy contrast to the savory layers.
- 6 taco-size Flour Tortillas – the perfect vessel to hold all the delicious fillings.
- 2 cups Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese – because no casserole is complete without plenty of melty cheese!
How to Make Baked Burrito Casserole
It’s honestly so simple to assemble this comforting dish. You’ll see just how easy it is to make a baked burrito casserole that feels like it came from a favorite restaurant, but with that special homemade touch. Let’s get this one-pan burrito casserole party started!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring even cooking.
- Step 2: Grab a skillet and brown the 1 lb ground beef with the 1 small white onion, chopped over medium heat. Cook until that beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease – nobody likes a greasy casserole!
- Step 3: Now, stir in the 1 packet taco seasoning, the 2 cans refried beans, and the 1 cup water directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. Heat everything through for about 2-3 minutes, stirring until it’s well combined and warmed. This creates your savory, hearty base.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup and the 1 cup sour cream until perfectly smooth. This creamy mixture adds a wonderful richness and binds everything together beautifully.
- Step 5: Time to start layering! Place 3 of your 6 taco-size flour tortillas in a single layer in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. You might need to overlap them slightly.
- Step 6: Spread half of your creamy soup mixture evenly over the tortillas. Then, dollop and spread half of the savory beef and bean mixture on top of that. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Step 7: Repeat the layering process: the remaining 3 tortillas, the rest of the soup mixture, the rest of the beef mixture, and crown it all with the remaining 1 cup of cheese. Seeing it all come together is so satisfying!
- Step 8: Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. The kitchen will smell amazing!
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Burrito Casserole
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. These tips will help you achieve perfection every time you make this comforting meal.
- Warm your tortillas slightly before layering to make them more pliable and prevent tearing. A quick zap in the microwave works wonders!
- Don’t overcook the beef and bean mixture; you want it heated through, not dried out, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to the beef mixture, or even layering in some corn for texture. You can find great tips on making your own taco seasoning if you prefer.
- Let the casserole rest for at least 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set, making it much easier to slice and serve neatly.
What’s the secret to perfect layered burrito casserole?
The secret to a perfect layered burrito casserole is balancing the creamy, the savory, and the cheesy elements. Ensuring each layer is evenly distributed, especially the refried beans and creamy soup mixture, creates that signature texture and makes it a truly cheesy burrito casserole.
Can I make this burrito casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire burrito casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, and bake as directed, perhaps adding a few extra minutes to account for the chill. This is a great make-ahead option similar to other casserole dishes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with this Mexican casserole dish?
A common pitfall is using tortillas that are too cold or stiff, leading to tearing. Always warm them slightly! Another mistake is over-baking, which can dry out the filling. Keep an eye on it and remove it as soon as the cheese is bubbly and golden. For more general cooking advice, check out these essential cooking tips.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Burrito Casserole
This hearty baked burrito casserole is a meal in itself, but I love to pair it with some fresh, vibrant sides to complete the offering. It’s truly a fantastic option for burrito casserole for dinner, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a weekend gathering. A simple side salad with a zesty lime dressing cuts through the richness beautifully. You could also serve it with some Mexican rice or a dollop of fresh salsa and guacamole on the side. Don’t forget a side of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to garnish! For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a power bowl.
Nutrition Facts for Baked Burrito Casserole
When you’re enjoying a hearty slice of this baked burrito casserole, here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving. It’s a comforting meal that’s also surprisingly balanced!
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Burrito Casserole
One of the best things about this baked burrito casserole is how well it stores, making it a truly family-friendly burrito casserole for meal prep. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the layers set, preventing a soggy mess when you store it. You can then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this casserole freezes exceptionally well! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, you can place a portion in the microwave for a minute or two until heated through, or cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly. This is a great alternative to chimichangas for a make-ahead meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Burrito Casserole
Is this baked burrito casserole spicy?
This recipe is mild by default, but you can easily make it a spicy burrito casserole! Just add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture or include some diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) in the layers. Adjust to your heat preference!
Can I make this an easy burrito casserole with different proteins?
Absolutely! While this is a fantastic ground beef burrito casserole, you can easily swap the beef for shredded chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling like black beans or seasoned lentils. It’s very versatile!
How much time does it take to make this quick weeknight burrito casserole?
The beauty of this dish is its speed! Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cook time is only 20 minutes, making it a truly quick weeknight burrito casserole. You can have dinner on the table in under 40 minutes, which is perfect for busy evenings. For other quick dinner ideas, check out these dinner recipes.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of this easy burrito casserole?
Leftovers of this easy burrito casserole store wonderfully! Once cooled, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Variations of Baked Burrito Casserole You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with this versatile dish! It’s wonderful as is, but here are a few ideas to switch things up. For a kick, try creating a spicy burrito casserole by adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you’re looking for a meatless option, a vegetarian burrito casserole bake is simple to assemble; just swap the ground beef for seasoned black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu. You could also experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for extra spice, or add corn and black beans to the beef layer for more texture and flavor. For a different cooking method, consider making individual burrito bowls instead of a casserole! You might also enjoy these homemade ice cream recipes for dessert.
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Baked Burrito Casserole: Amazing 1-Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and comforting baked burrito casserole featuring layers of savory ground beef, creamy refried beans, and melted cheese, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and is a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 small White Onion, chopped
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning
- 2 cans Refried Beans
- 1 cup Water
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 6 taco-size Flour Tortillas
- 2 cups Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese
- For Toppings: Sour Cream, Chives, Shredded Lettuce, Diced Jalapeños, Diced Tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in taco seasoning, refried beans, and water. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Whisk together cream of mushroom soup and sour cream in a separate bowl.
- Layer 3 tortillas in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the soup mixture over tortillas, followed by half of the beef mixture, and 1 cup of cheese.
- Repeat layering with remaining tortillas, soup mixture, beef mixture, and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with desired toppings before serving.
Notes
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to help set the layers for easier serving.
- Warm tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before layering if they feel stiff to prevent tearing.
- This baked burrito casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils.
- Adjust jalapeños to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg