Baked Burrito Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s packed with bold flavors and melted cheesy goodness, look no further than this Baked Burrito Casserole. It’s everything you love about burritos transformed into a layered casserole that bakes up bubbly and golden, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, fresh salsa, and not one but two kinds of cheese, this dish combines texture and taste in every forkful. Trust me, once you try this Baked Burrito Casserole, it might just become your go-to weeknight favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is easier than you think, and each one plays a crucial role in the success of this dish. From the hearty ground beef to the vibrant salsa, every element adds a layer of flavor or texture that makes the Baked Burrito Casserole so irresistible.

• Ground beef (1 lb, lean): Provides a rich, meaty base that’s juicy and packed with savory flavor.
• Flour tortillas (medium size, about 8): These form the soft, chewy layers that hold the casserole together.
• Refried beans (1 can): Adds creaminess and a velvety texture, balancing the meat perfectly.
• Salsa (1 cup, any brand or homemade): Brings a fresh, tangy kick that brightens every bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Offers sharpness and a gooey melt that’s pure comfort food.
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup): Adds a mild, buttery flavor and creamy meltiness.
• Taco seasoning (1 packet or homemade): Infuses the beef with classic Mexican spices for that unmistakable taste.
• Chopped onions (1 small): Provides subtle sweetness and crunch when sautéed.
• Minced garlic (2 cloves): Enhances the savory profile with its warm, aromatic notes.
• Sour cream (for topping): Adds a cool, tangy finish that complements the rich casserole.
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish): Delivers a fresh, herbal burst that brightens the entire dish.

How to Make Baked Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking this delicious casserole. Then, in a large skillet over medium heat, brown your lean ground beef until it’s cooked through and nicely crumbly. As the beef cooks, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic to sauté until they become soft and fragrant, which builds the base flavor for your casserole.

Step 2: Season and Simmer

Now it’s time to add that wonderful taco seasoning along with about ¼ cup of water to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens and the spices fully infuse into the meat. This step transforms simple beef into a vibrant, flavorful filling that will make your Baked Burrito Casserole truly sing.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and start by spreading a thin layer of salsa on the bottom to keep things saucy and moist. Next, place two flour tortillas side by side to cover the salsa. Spread half of the refried beans evenly over the tortillas, then layer on half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top to get that irresistible melty texture. Repeat the layers one more time—tortillas, beans, beef, and cheese—finally finishing with tortillas topped with the remaining salsa and cheese.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover your casserole dish with foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the cheese on top turns golden and bubbling. This baking step melds all those fantastic flavors together and creates the perfect, cheesy crust.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Your Baked Burrito Casserole is just about ready! Scatter fresh chopped cilantro over the top to add a fresh herbal note and serve with a dollop of cool sour cream for that classic creamy contrast. This final touch elevates the dish from tasty to unforgettable.

How to Serve Baked Burrito Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes not only brighten the appearance but also add layers of flavor. Chopped cilantro brings a zesty herbal freshness that balances the richness, while a scoop of cold sour cream adds a smooth and tangy creaminess. You might also consider a few slices of ripe avocado or a sprinkle of diced green onions for added texture.

Side Dishes

Keep the sides light and complementary. A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette or some Mexican street corn will pair beautifully, providing crispness and sweetness to contrast the hearty casserole. For an extra burst of freshness, pico de gallo or a bowl of sliced fresh fruit can be excellent choices to serve alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve your Baked Burrito Casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch. Alternatively, layer it in clear glass baking dishes so guests can admire those colorful, cheesy layers before digging in. It’s also fantastic for potlucks—just bring the casserole in the baking dish and let everyone help themselves to this comforting crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, cover your leftover Baked Burrito Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully, which means you can make it ahead for busy nights. Wrap the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap or portion it into freezer-safe containers. For best quality, enjoy within 2 to 3 months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Baked Burrito Casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, usually about 20-25 minutes for leftovers. Microwaving works too for quicker meals—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the cheese and tortillas.

FAQs

Can I make Baked Burrito Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms or use a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add extra beans or corn for more texture and protein.

What can I use instead of refried beans?

If you’re not a fan of refried beans, black beans or pinto beans work great too. Just mash them slightly for a creamy texture or layer them whole if you prefer more bite in your casserole.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

While flour tortillas work best for layering because of their flexibility, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just warm them slightly beforehand to prevent them from breaking and to keep them pliable during layering and baking.

Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Feel free to add chopped jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or use a spicier salsa. Adjust the taco seasoning with extra chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like your Baked Burrito Casserole with some heat.

How many does this Baked Burrito Casserole serve?

This recipe typically feeds 6 to 8 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering, and leftovers are great for lunch the next day!

Final Thoughts

This Baked Burrito Casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and sure to please everyone around your table. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve for guests. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how quickly it becomes a favorite that you’ll return to again and again.

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