Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious Baked Burrito Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 can refried beans
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 package large flour tortillas
- 2 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
Directions
Follow these easy steps to create your mouth-watering Baked Burrito Casserole:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning and refried beans. Heat the mixture through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing until well blended.
- Step 5: Spread half of the soup mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Step 6: Lay a layer of tortillas over the soup mixture, tearing them as necessary to fit the pan.
- Step 7: Layer half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with about 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Step 8: Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining soup mixture and topping with the remaining cheese.
- Step 9: Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Pro Tips for Making Baked Burrito Casserole
Here are a few tips to elevate your Baked Burrito Casserole:
- For an extra layer of flavor, add some diced jalapeños or green chilies to your beef mixture.
- Top the casserole with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole just before serving to enhance the freshness.
- Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option.
- If you like a little crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips on top during the last few minutes of baking.
- Use lard or oil to lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.
FAQ
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
2. Can I freeze the Baked Burrito Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican-style rice, a fresh salad, or chips and salsa for a complete meal.
4. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
5. Can I use different cheese?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This Baked Burrito Casserole is a versatile, hearty, and delicious meal that brings the beloved flavors of burritos to your table in an easy-to-make dish. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep efforts. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a satisfying meal your family will absolutely love!
