Name: Burrito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 onion, chopped; 1 package taco seasoning; 6 large flour tortillas; 1 can refried beans; 2–3 cups shredded taco cheese or cheddar cheese; 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 4 ounces sour cream

Jump to Recipe

Burrito Casserole brings all the bold flavors of a classic burrito into one warm, satisfying baked dish. If you love layers of seasoned beef, soft tortillas, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this Burrito Casserole will quickly become a family favorite. It combines the hearty richness of ground beef with the cozy appeal of a baked dinner, making it perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Every bite delivers the comfort of Mexican comfort food in a simple, crowd-pleasing format that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.

Story

I started making Burrito Casserole on busy weeknights when I wanted something hearty but simple. Instead of rolling individual burritos, I layered everything into one baking dish. Burrito Casserole instantly solved the problem of time while still delivering bold flavor. Because Burrito Casserole uses everyday ingredients, I can pull it together quickly without sacrificing taste. Over time, Burrito Casserole became our go-to comfort meal whenever we crave something warm, cheesy, and satisfying.

Unlike traditional burritos, this layered version creates a creamy, cohesive texture. The seasoned beef blends beautifully with refried beans and sauce, while the tortillas soften and absorb flavor as they bake. As a result, every slice holds together perfectly, making serving simple and mess-free.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 onion, chopped
1 package taco seasoning
6 large flour tortillas
1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
2–3 cups shredded taco cheese or cheddar cheese
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
4 ounces sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spoon until fully browned and the onion turns soft. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming oily.

Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the beef mixture. Stir well so the seasoning coats every bite. Then add the refried beans and mix thoroughly until heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

In a separate medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir until completely smooth. This mixture forms the creamy base that binds the casserole together.

Cooking Instructions

Spread half of the creamy sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Tear three tortillas into medium-sized pieces and layer them over the sauce. Make sure the surface is mostly covered.

Spoon half of the beef and bean mixture over the tortillas. Spread evenly to create a consistent layer. Sprinkle a generous portion of shredded cheese over the meat.

Repeat the layering process: add the remaining tortillas, then the rest of the meat mixture, followed by more creamy sauce if desired. Finish with a thick layer of shredded cheese on top.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes. The cheese should melt completely and turn slightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers settle for cleaner servings.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not skip draining the beef. Excess grease can make the casserole soggy. Also, avoid overloading the tortillas in one area. Even layering ensures balanced flavor in every bite. Finally, resist overbaking. If you leave it too long in the oven, the tortillas may dry out.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties for smoother melting. Additionally, add a pinch of cumin or chili powder to deepen the flavor. If you prefer heat, stir diced jalapeños into the beef mixture. For extra richness, blend a small handful of cheese into the creamy sauce before layering.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Burrito Casserole warm with toppings such as diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. A simple side salad or Spanish rice pairs beautifully with this dish. Because the casserole slices neatly, it also works well for potlucks or gatherings.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat the entire dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Burrito Casserole transforms simple pantry ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal that everyone loves. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, soft tortillas, and melted cheese, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. Because it comes together quickly and bakes in under 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into busy schedules. Try this recipe once, and it may become your new favorite weeknight staple.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or shredded chicken works well. You can also replace some of the meat with black beans for a lighter option while keeping the flavor hearty.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free tortillas and confirm that your taco seasoning and cream soup are gluten-free. These simple swaps make the dish suitable without changing its comforting texture.