Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family? This Easy Burrito Casserole is the perfect solution! It combines all the classic burrito ingredients into one convenient, cheesy, and flavorful dish. Simple to make and absolutely scrumptious, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 8-inch flour tortillas
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the 1 pound of lean ground beef and 1/2 finely chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the packet of taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add Beans and Tomatoes: Add the 15 oz can of drained and rinsed black beans and the 10 oz can of diced tomatoes with green chiles to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer Tortillas: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place one of the 8-inch flour tortillas at the bottom.
- Add Beef Mixture: Spread a third of the beef mixture over the tortilla.
- Add Sour Cream and Cheese: Spread 2 tablespoons of sour cream over the beef mixture and sprinkle 1/2 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese blend on top.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers two more times with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, sour cream, and cheese. Ensure that the final layer is covered with a generous amount of cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as chopped cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of extra sour cream.
Cooking Notes
- Tortillas: Feel free to use whole wheat tortillas or gluten-free tortillas if you prefer.
- Cheese: You can use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a spicy pepper jack.
- Additional Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients such as corn, jalapenos, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole? A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, Spanish rice, or tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the flour tortillas with low-carb tortillas or use thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant as layers instead of tortillas. Ensure the taco seasoning does not contain added sugars or starches, and use a low-carb sour cream and cheese blend.
This Easy Burrito Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines the flavors of a classic burrito in a convenient, baked form. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With its cheesy, flavorful layers, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
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