🌯 Easy Baked Burrito Casserole

Yesss! 🌯🔥 This Easy Baked Burrito Casserole is a weeknight winner — layers of seasoned beef, creamy beans, gooey cheese, and soft tortillas baked to bubbly perfection. Think: all the flavors of a beef burrito, but way easier and more family-friendly in casserole form!

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🍽️ Dish Type: Main Course

🍴 Servings: 6–8

🕒 Total Time: ~40 minutes

🌟 Flavor Profile: Savory, cheesy, Tex-Mex inspired

🌶️ Spice Level: Mild (easy to adjust)

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📝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra melty goodness)
• 6–8 flour tortillas (soft taco size)
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, guac, or extra sour cream

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🔥 Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
2. Cook the beef:
   In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning + 2–3 tbsp water, stir well. Add refried beans and mix until heated through and combined.
3. Layer it up:
   Spread a little enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer tortillas (cut to fit), then beef/bean mixture, sour cream, shredded cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of tortillas, enchilada sauce, and cheese on top.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let sit 5–10 mins before slicing.
5. Garnish with toppings of choice and serve warm!

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✅ Tips:

• Add corn, black beans, or sautéed peppers/onions to the beef mixture for more flavor and texture.
• Swap beef for shredded chicken, turkey, or a meatless crumble for a different twist.
• Use spicy enchilada sauce if you like extra heat!

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🍽️ What to Serve with Burrito Casserole

Here are some tasty and easy side dish ideas:

🌽 Fresh & Flavorful:

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote) or corn salad
• Guacamole & chips
• Pico de gallo or salsa fresca
• Avocado slices or simple guac
• Cilantro lime rice or Mexican rice

🥗 Lighter Sides:

• Chopped salad with lime vinaigrette
• Southwest slaw (cabbage, corn, lime, cumin)
• Cucumber tomato salad with a sprinkle of cotija

🌶️ Extra Zing:

• Jalapeño poppers or roasted peppers
• Refried black beans or charro beans
• Queso dip for chips or to drizzle on top

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❄️ Can You Freeze Burrito Casserole? YES!

This casserole is super freezer-friendly 🙌

To Freeze (Before Baking):

1. Assemble fully in a foil pan or freezer-safe dish.
2. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then foil.
3. Label and freeze for up to 2–3 months.

✅ Pro tip: Don’t add fresh toppings (like green onions) until after baking.

To Bake from Frozen:

• Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 375°F for 30–40 mins, covered with foil for the first half.
• OR bake straight from frozen: add 15–20 extra minutes, covering with foil until the last 10 mins.

To Freeze (After Baking):

• Let cool completely.
• Cut into individual portions, wrap in plastic + foil or airtight containers.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

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