If you are craving a dish that combines the hearty flavors of a burrito with the convenience of a casserole, you will absolutely adore this Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe. It’s a warm, cheesy, layered marvel that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delivers layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, soft tortillas, and melty cheese all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-tos for a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the seasoned ground beef providing a savory punch to the blend of cheeses creating that luscious melt, every component contributes to a perfect bite every time.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use lean beef for a rich, meaty base that browns beautifully and adds hearty flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: This seasoning brings in classic Mexican spices, making the filling boldly delicious.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps combine the seasoning and beef creating a nice sauce to keep everything moist.
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans: Adds creaminess and substance, melding perfectly with the beef.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Offers a tangy, slightly spicy layer that ties the casserole together.
- 6 medium flour tortillas: Soft and flexible, they create the perfect layers, slightly toasted after baking.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and flavorful, melts to gooey goodness enhancing every mouthful.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creamy mildness and extra melty texture for balance.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional): A cool, tangy topping that complements the warm casserole.
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Season
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks for even texture. Drain off the excess fat to keep the casserole rich but not greasy. Next, stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let this mixture simmer for about five minutes to thicken and deepen the flavors, creating a mouthwatering filling for the casserole.
Step 2: Incorporate the Refried Beans
Once your beef mixture is ready, add the refried beans directly into the skillet. Stir well to blend the creamy beans into the seasoned meat, giving you a hearty, cohesive layer that will bring moisture and richness to every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a few spoonfuls of enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom; this prevents sticking and infuses the bottom layer with that tangy, chili-kissed taste that makes this dish so memorable.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Place two flour tortillas over the enchilada sauce, tearing them as needed so the entire base is covered. Next, spread one-third of the beef and bean mixture over the tortillas. Drizzle more enchilada sauce on top followed by a generous sprinkle of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses combined. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a thick, melty cheese topping that will brown beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This ensures the casserole heats through and the flavors meld. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes uncovered, allowing the cheese to bubble and develop a golden crust. Let the casserole cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving, which helps it set and makes slicing cleaner and easier.
How to Serve Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a delightful finishing touch by topping your servings with a dollop of sour cream—this adds creamy tang that balances the spice and richness. Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro to brighten and freshen each bite, imparting a subtle crunch and fragrant note.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides. Consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, or some Mexican rice to soak up any extra sauce. For a crunchy contrast, tortilla chips and guacamole or a fresh pico de gallo make fantastic companions that complete your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or use it as a taco filling paired with warm tortillas. You could also turn it into a loaded burrito bowl by layering it over rice and topping it with avocado slices and sliced jalapeños, making it a versatile star for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve flavor and moisture. Reheat gently to maintain the cheese melt and prevent drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to three months, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly once again. You can also microwave individual slices but keep an eye on the texture so it doesn’t become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe and provides a leaner alternative while keeping that delicious protein-packed base.
What if I don’t have refried beans?
If refried beans aren’t on hand, you can substitute with mashed black beans or pinto beans for a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.
How spicy is the casserole?
The casserole has a mild to moderate spice level due to the taco seasoning and enchilada sauce. You can adjust by adding extra jalapeños or green chiles for more heat or use mild seasoning for less.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas or corn tortillas (watch for tearing) to enjoy this Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe gluten-free.
Is this dish suitable for freezing and reheating?
Definitely. This casserole holds up well to freezing and reheating, making it a convenient dish to prepare in advance or store leftovers safely.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and satisfying about this Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe—it’s like a warm hug on a plate that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or even just a cozy night in, this dish delivers flavors and textures that never disappoint. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a cherished classic in your recipe collection.
Print
Easy Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This easy burrito casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal the whole family will love. Layered with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, tortillas, and melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknights or potlucks.
Ingredients
Meat and Beans
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
Sauce and Tortillas
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 6 medium flour tortillas
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Season Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
- Add Refried Beans: Add the refried beans to the skillet, stirring to combine and warming through evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread a few spoonfuls of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer Ingredients: Place two tortillas over the sauce, tearing them as needed to cover the bottom fully. Spread one-third of the beef and bean mixture over the tortillas, drizzle with enchilada sauce, and sprinkle with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with a cheese layer on top to melt and brown nicely.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow ingredients to heat through and cheeses to melt.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes to set, then top with sour cream and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for beef to make it leaner.
- Use black beans instead of refried beans for a different flavor and texture.
- Add jalapeños or chopped green chiles for a spicier version.
