If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that delivers big Tex-Mex flavors with minimal fuss, this Baked Burrito Casserole is about to become your next go-to recipe. Imagine all the comfort of cheesy burritos layered in a single baking dish, making it perfect for family dinners or feeding a hungry group of friends. Savory beef, creamy layers, melty cheese and soft tortillas all come together in this irresistible, fuss-free classic. Best of all, it’s easy to prep ahead and impossible to mess up—so let’s get cooking!

Baked Burrito Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Baked Burrito Casserole are kitchen staples, but each one plays a vital role in the final glorious result. From bold spices and creamy sauces to hearty beef and gooey cheese, these basics create pure casserole magic together.

Ground Beef: Go for lean ground beef for less grease and rich, meaty flavor.
Chopped Onion: Adds important savory depth and a gentle sweetness.
Minced Garlic: Just two cloves bring irresistible aroma and punchy flavor.
Taco Seasoning (1 packet): Delivers a perfect blend of spices, no extra measuring needed.
Water: Helps the seasoning meld and keeps the filling moist.
Diced Green Chilies (canned): These add subtle heat and that signature Southwest zing.
Refried Beans: Creamy, hearty, and essential for perfect burrito layers.
Sour Cream: Balances everything with its cool tangy smoothness.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds dreamy, creamy texture and unexpected savory note.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For irresistible stretch, color, and flavor (the cheesier the better!).
Flour Tortillas (soft taco size): These create those signature, pillowy casserole layers.
Green Onions or Cilantro: Fresh garnish that brightens up every slice.

How to Make Baked Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this prevents sticking and makes serving those yummy layers a breeze later on.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef and chopped onion. Break up the beef and sauté everything until it’s evenly browned and the onions are soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, drain it off so your Baked Burrito Casserole isn’t greasy.

Step 3: Add Flavor with Seasonings and Beans

Now, stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, water, and green chilies. Let everything simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors can meld. Then, blend in the refried beans until you have a rich, uniform filling. Remove from the heat and prepare for layering fun!

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and cream of mushroom soup, whisking until smooth. This is the magical secret to that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess throughout the casserole.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of the sour cream mixture on the bottom of your baking dish. Lay down 2 or 3 flour tortillas (cutting as needed to fit). Top with half the beef-bean mixture, then more sour cream sauce, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar. Repeat the layering once more. Finish with a layer of tortillas, the rest of the creamy sauce, and all that glorious cheddar on top.

Step 6: Bake and Finish

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes to lock in all that moisture. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes, letting the top get golden, bubbly, and utterly tempting. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes, which makes it easier to slice and serve. Don’t forget to finish with a flourish of green onions or cilantro!

How to Serve Baked Burrito Casserole

Garnishes

Scatter chopped green onions or fresh cilantro on top right before serving for a burst of color and a fresh hit of flavor. You can also set out bowls of diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or a cool dollop of extra sour cream for everyone to customize their plate.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a chilled avocado salad, a scoop of zesty salsa, or crisp shredded lettuce adds extra freshness. Warm tortilla chips and a side of rice or beans round out the meal beautifully if you’re feeding a crowd.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual dinners, serve the Baked Burrito Casserole straight from the baking dish with a big spoon. If you’re entertaining, try slicing it into perfect squares and plating each piece with a flourish of fresh toppings and a drizzle of hot sauce. For a festive touch, set up a toppings bar so everyone can build their perfect bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep leftovers fresh, cover the cooled Baked Burrito Casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors just keep getting better overnight as everything settles together.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply assemble, but don’t bake, or freeze finished leftovers in airtight containers or double-wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Mark the date and stash for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat a big batch, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through. For individual portions, a minute or two in the microwave will do the trick. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for that just-baked appeal.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Both ground turkey and shredded rotisserie chicken are delicious substitutes that lighten things up, while still soaking up all the spices and creamy sauce in this Baked Burrito Casserole.

Are there any gluten-free options?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the flour tortillas for your favorite gluten-free tortillas and double-check your taco seasoning and soup ingredients for hidden gluten.

Can I make Baked Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it straight from the fridge into the oven.

What can I add for extra spice?

If you like things spicy, toss in some chopped pickled jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper with the taco seasoning, or serve with your favorite hot sauce at the table for an extra kick.

Does it freeze well after baking?

Yes, once the casserole has cooled completely, you can freeze portions for quick future meals. Just thaw and reheat for all the Tex-Mex comfort with zero effort on busy nights.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as seeing everyone gather around the table for a bubbling, cheesy pan of Baked Burrito Casserole. Whether you make it for family, friends, or just for yourself and leftovers, it’s a dish that never fails to deliver both comfort and flavor. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this delicious twist on classic burritos—and I’m sure it’ll earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation!

Baked Burrito Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Baked Burrito Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines all the flavors of a burrito in a comforting casserole. Layers of seasoned beef, refried beans, creamy sauce, and cheese come together for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning
½ cup water
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
1 (16-ounce) can refried beans

For the Creamy Sauce:

1 cup sour cream
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup

Additional Ingredients:

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6–8 flour tortillas (soft taco size)
Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic, taco seasoning, water, and green chilies. Stir in refried beans. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Mix sour cream and cream of mushroom soup until smooth.
Assemble the Casserole: Layer sour cream mixture, tortillas, beef mixture, cheese, and repeat. Top with remaining tortillas, sauce, and cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Serve: Let it rest before slicing. Garnish with green onions or cilantro if desired.