Introduction
The Easy Burrito Casserole is a tasty and effortless meal suitable for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. It combines the flavours of a traditional burrito into a filling, stacked casserole that will be popular with your loved ones. You can adapt the recipe to suit different dietary needs; it is also quite flexible and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (for more nutritional value replace with ground turkey)
1 envelope taco seasoning mix
1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
Black beans, 15 ounces, washed
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles like Rotel
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
1 package of 10 count flour tortillas.
1 cup salsa sauce.
½ cup finely chopped green onions’
¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves optional.
Sour cream and guacamole for garnishing.
Instructions
Turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Using a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it gets brown. Remove extra grease.
Put in the taco seasoning mix and follow the package instructions to add water and simmer.
In a big bowl, put together the refried beans, black beans, corn and green chili diced tomatoes.
Cover the bottom of a 9 x13 inch baking dish with salsa spread thinly on it.
Spread a layer of flour tortillas on top of the salsa to cover it completely at the bottom of the dish.
Cover this with half of bean mixture over tortillas.
Sprinkle half part cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over these items.
Place seasoned grounds on top as one more layer.
Repeat the sequence: tortillas, bean mixture, cheeses and ground beefs.
Finally end with topping tortillas with leftover cheese
Use an aluminum foil to cover them then bake for 25 minutes
Remove aluminum foil to bake for an additional 10 minutes or when cheese is bubbly and golden browned
Allow cooling for few minutes before adding some chopped cilantro and green onions on top after that.
Serve alongside guacamole as well as sour cream.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve while hot with a side of fresh salad, tortilla chips, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or more salsa.
Storage: Save the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days maximum. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire pie at 350°F until heated through.
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just wrap it tightly using plastic wrap and foil then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve while hot with a side of fresh salad, tortilla chips, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or more salsa.
Storage: Save the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days maximum. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire pie at 350°F until heated through.
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just wrap it tightly using plastic wrap and foil then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Tips for Success
Tortillas: Use slightly stale tortillas because they absorb less moisture and keep their shape better.
Cheese: When you shred your own, cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded types.
Layering: Ensure that you have even layers so that every bite tastes similar and has a nice texture.
Spice Level: Opt for mild or hot taco seasoning plus mild or spicy diced tomatoes with green chilies to make it milder or spicier as desired.
Tips for Success
Tortillas: Use slightly stale tortillas because they absorb less moisture and keep their shape better.
Cheese: When you shred your own, cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded types.
Layering: Ensure that you have even layers so that every bite tastes similar and has a nice texture.
Spice Level: Opt for mild or hot taco seasoning plus mild or spicy diced tomatoes with green chilies to make it milder or spicier as desired.
Health Benefits
Protein – particularly if you use lean ground beef or turkey, this dish is a good source of protein.
Fiber – beans and corn add dietary fiber which aids digestion and keeps one fuller longer.
Vitamins and Minerals – corn contributes vitamins A & C alongside tomatoes while cheese provides calcium necessary for strong bones.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories – 400
Protein – 20g
Carbohydrates – 45g
Fat – 18g
Fiber – 8g
Sodium–850mg
Calcium– 200mg
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian: Avoid meat, increase the amount of beans or put a meat substitute.
Gluten-Free: Tortillas should be gluten-free and other ingredients must contain no gluten.
Lower Carb: Replace flour tortillas with low-carb tortillas or use thinly sliced zucchini.
Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or few dashes of hot sauce to bean mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can the casserole be prepared in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble it the night before and bake it the next day. Keep it covered in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef? A: Absolutely! Cooked, shredded chicken works great in this casserole.
Q: How can I make it less spicy for kids? A: Use mild taco seasoning and diced tomatoes without green chilies.
Q: Can I add more vegetables? A: Yes, you can add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the layers.
Conclusion
The Easy Burrito Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that brings the flavors of a burrito into a convenient, baked form. With its hearty ingredients and customizable nature, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a potluck, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the robust flavors and the convenience of this easy-to-make meal!