A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Dish
If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful, and family-friendly meal, look no further than this Easy Baked Burrito Casserole. This dish combines the bold, zesty flavors of a classic burrito with the simplicity of a casserole, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. With layers of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty beef, it’s a guaranteed hit for all ages.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Simple Ingredients: Most of these ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.
- Time-Saving: The straightforward assembly and quick bake time make this ideal for busy schedules.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your family’s preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can refried beans
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 1 tsp vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add 1 tsp of vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Beans and Seasoning
Mix in the refried beans and taco seasoning. Stir well to combine and heat through.
4. Prepare the Creamy Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Spread half of this mixture evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
5. Layer the Casserole
- Place 3 flour tortillas over the sour cream-soup mixture, slightly overlapping them to cover the bottom.
- Add half of the beef mixture on top of the tortillas and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining sour cream-soup mixture, tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Knife and cutting board for chopping
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh, soft tortillas will make layering and serving easier.
- Cheese Choices: Swap the Mexican blend cheese for sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Add Veggies: Layer in cooked bell peppers, corn, or black beans for additional texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free version.
Variations to Try
- Chicken Burrito Casserole: Swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken and use chicken taco seasoning.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add a mix of sautéed vegetables and black beans for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Breakfast Twist: Use scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a brunch-friendly version.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warmed through.
Food Pairings
- Sides: Serve with a fresh green salad, Spanish rice, or chips and salsa for a complete meal.
- Drinks: Pair with a cold Mexican lager, a glass of sangria, or a classic margarita for the adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Can I Use a Different Soup?
Absolutely. Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are great alternatives to cream of mushroom.
Can I Make This Dish in a Smaller Portion?
Yes, simply halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch baking dish instead of a 9×13-inch one.
Call to Action
This Easy Baked Burrito Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending bold flavors with effortless preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, it’s sure to become a family favorite. If you try this recipe, please share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make meals. Enjoy!