Layered Burrito Casserole

I’ve always loved recipes that bring comfort and flavor together in one dish, and my Layered Burrito Casserole is exactly that. I first created this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something satisfying, quick, and versatile. The moment I sliced into the golden, cheesy layers, I knew I had stumbled upon a dish my family and friends would love as much as I did. It combines the heartiness of a casserole with the playful flavors of a burrito, making it perfect for dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

You will love this recipe because it’s full of bold flavors without being complicated. Every bite gives you a rich mix of seasoned beef, tender beans, melted cheese, and soft tortillas layered together to create a comforting harmony. It’s easy to make, and the whole family can enjoy it together. The combination of textures – soft, cheesy, and slightly crisp on top – makes it feel indulgent while remaining approachable.

One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. You can swap ingredients according to your preferences or dietary needs. Add extra vegetables for a nutritious boost, or make it spicier with your favorite chili peppers. It works perfectly as a meal for busy weeknights, a weekend dinner with friends, or even as a dish to bring to potlucks.

This recipe is also affordable, using simple pantry staples that you likely already have. With accessible ingredients, you can create a filling, hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for the Layered Burrito Casserole:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

• 1 cup salsa or tomato sauce

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

• 6-8 small flour tortillas

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro for serving

How to Prepare This Recipe

Preparing the Layered Burrito Casserole is straightforward, and the steps are designed to save time while maximizing flavor. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it begins to brown, about 5–7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and continue to cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Season the mixture with chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring frequently so that the spices evenly coat the meat. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from heat.

In a separate bowl, combine the cooked rice, drained black beans, corn, and salsa or tomato sauce. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. You can adjust the salsa amount based on your preferred level of moisture; this mixture will serve as one of the casserole’s filling layers.

To assemble the casserole, start by spreading a thin layer of the rice and bean mixture at the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of flour tortillas over the mixture, slightly overlapping them to cover the base completely. Next, spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the tortillas. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on top, making sure it reaches every corner. Repeat the layering process with the remaining rice mixture, tortillas, beef, and finish with a generous layer of cheese.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the ingredients to heat through. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and slightly golden.

Quick and Easy Tips

This casserole is quick and easy because you can prepare the filling ingredients ahead of time. Cook the rice and beef in advance, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble. You can also customize this recipe by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Customizable Variations

The Layered Burrito Casserole is highly adaptable. For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese or swap some tortillas with whole-wheat varieties. Spice lovers can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. Vegetarian alternatives work well too—replace beef with sautéed tofu, tempeh, or extra beans.

Popular With Many People

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Its combination of textures, layers, and flavors makes it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. It reheats beautifully, so leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving. Serving it with fresh toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or chopped cilantro adds extra freshness and flavor that everyone will enjoy.

Layered Burrito Casserole

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Layered Burrito Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines seasoned beef, rice, beans, corn, and cheese in a layered format. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s easy to make, versatile, and satisfying for everyone.

• Author: Lura Skye
• Prep Time: 20
• Cook Time: 35
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 cup salsa or tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 6–8 small flour tortillas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it starts to brown, breaking it apart with a spatula.
3. Add Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently.
4. Season the Meat: Sprinkle in chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat the beef and onions evenly with the spices. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until fully incorporated.
5. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, drained black beans, corn, and salsa or tomato sauce. Mix until evenly combined.
6. Layer the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the rice and bean mixture at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of flour tortillas on top, slightly overlapping to cover the base. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the tortillas. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese evenly over the beef. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture, tortillas, beef, and top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
8. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
9. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with optional toppings such as sour cream, avocado slices, or chopped cilantro.

Notes

Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Freezing: Assemble without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Customization: Add vegetables, swap tortillas, or adjust spices to taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and bake it when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I use different types of beans?
Yes, you can swap black beans for pinto beans, kidney beans, or a mix of your favorites. Just make sure they are drained and rinsed before layering.

4. How spicy is this casserole?
The casserole has a mild, balanced flavor by default. If you prefer it spicier, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the beef mixture.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace the beef with extra beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. The layers and flavors remain just as satisfying.

6. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
You can, but corn tortillas are less flexible and may crack when layered. Slightly warming them before layering can help prevent breakage.

7. How should I serve the casserole?
Serve hot, directly from the baking dish. Optional toppings include sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of extra cheese for added flavor and presentation.