Layered Burrito Casserole
A quick, hearty, and comforting Layered Burrito Casserole that combines tortillas, beans, seasoned meat, cheese, and salsa baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, this versatile dish satisfies family tastes with minimal cleanup and easy customization.
- Author: Judy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern / Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Customizable for Gluten Free (use gluten-free tortillas)
Proteins
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Base Layers
Dairy & Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack recommended)
Sauces & Aromatics
- 1 cup salsa verde or red salsa
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Herbs
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional Garnishes
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Crushed tortilla chips (for topping)
- Prepare the meat filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in cumin and chili powder, then add black beans and salsa. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the casserole layers: Grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom. Place flour tortillas evenly over the meat to form the first layer. Repeat layering with the meat mixture, tortillas, and shredded cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Bake until bubbly: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream before serving to add creaminess and color.
Notes
- Ingredient prep: Brown meat thoroughly to develop deeper flavor and prevent soggy layers.
- Layer evenly: Distribute ingredients evenly for balanced taste in every bite.
- Par-bake tortillas: Lightly warming tortillas before layering helps them hold texture.
- Cheese choice: Use a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend for rich flavor and melt.
- Rest before serving: Allow casserole to cool slightly for cleaner slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: burrito casserole, layered casserole, quick dinner, comfort food, one-pan meal, easy Mexican casserole, family-friendly, gluten-free option