Layered Burrito Casserole

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Layered Burrito Casserole

Layered Burrito Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine into one easy-to-make casserole. Imagine the rich scent of seasoned ground beef mingling with creamy refried beans, wholesome black beans, sweet corn, and gooey cheddar cheese, all nestled between soft flour tortillas. This layered casserole is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes, too, with vibrant colors and delicious textures that invite everyone to dig in. In this recipe, we’ll go step-by-step to guide you through the process and make meal preparation a breeze for you and your family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Layered Burrito Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly easy to prep, making it an ideal choice for families who might not have a lot of time to spare. With minimal ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. In addition to being quick to prepare, this dish is versatile, meaning you can easily customize it according to your tastes. Whether you decide to go with ground beef or opt for ground turkey for a lighter version, the flavors remain absolutely delectable. Plus, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for gatherings, potlucks, or a simple family dinner.

Ingredients for Layered Burrito Casserole

To create this delicious Layered Burrito Casserole, you’ll need the following heartwarming ingredients:

• 1 pound Ground Beef (Alternatively, use ground turkey for a lighter option that’s just as flavorful.)
• 1 package Taco Seasoning (This blend brings the classic Tex-Mex flavor that’s synonymous with burritos.)
• 2 cans Refried Beans (Creamy and rich, these beans serve as the perfect base layer.)
• 1 can Black Beans (Drained and rinsed for added texture and protein.)
• 1 cup Corn (Drained, adding a sweet crunch to the layers.)
• 6 large Flour Tortillas (Soft and pliable, they hold all the goodness together.)
• 1 cup Salsa (Feel free to use your favorite variety; medium to spicy salsa works best!)
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (Shredded, this cheesy goodness ties everything together.)
• 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (Chopped, adding a burst of freshness and color on top.)

Step-by-Step Directions for Layered Burrito Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s ready for the casserole.

2. Cook the Meat: In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Cook until the meat is browned and crumbled, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.

3. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

4. Layer the Ingredients:

   • Start with a layer of tortillas at the bottom.
   • Spread half of the refried beans over the tortillas.
   • Sprinkle half of the cooked beef on top, followed by half of the black beans, half of the corn, and a generous portion of salsa.
   • Repeat the layers, finishing with a tortilla layer topped with the remaining salsa and all the shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Garnish: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Top with chopped fresh cilantro for that extra burst of flavor and color.

Tips & Tricks

To make the perfect Layered Burrito Casserole, keep these chef’s secrets in mind:

• Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers, jalapeños, or onions for an extra kick.
• Heat It Up: If you love spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or pickled peppers between the layers or serving with extra salsa.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven an hour before serving.
• Get Creative with Cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to mix it with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving your Layered Burrito Casserole, the possibilities are endless! For a complete meal, consider pairing it with fresh guacamole and tortilla chips. A side salad with citrus dressing brings a refreshing contrast to the rich layers of the casserole. Or keep it simple with a dollop of sour cream and slices of avocado. Consider serving margaritas or flavored agua frescas as delightful accompaniments for a festive occasion.

Nutritional Information

Layered Burrito Casserole is not only hearty and filling but also offers a nutritious meal option. Each serving roughly contains:

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 18-22 grams
• Fiber: 7-9 grams

Enjoy it as a wholesome indulgence; it satisfies cravings while providing essential nutrients.

Storing Tips & Variations for Layered Burrito Casserole

To store your casserole, simply cover it tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-lasting leftovers, consider freezing individual portions. When reheating, either microwave or bake it in the oven until warmed through.

For healthier alternatives, you can substitute whole grain tortillas or replace some of the cheese with Greek yogurt. Looking to change things up? Try adding shredded chicken instead of beef for a twist, or go meatless with layers of diced vegetables.

Conclusion for Layered Burrito Casserole

Now that you know how to create this irresistible Layered Burrito Casserole, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get started! Not only is this dish a comforting weeknight staple, but it’s also a flexible recipe that allows room for customization according to personal preferences. Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step directions, and watch as your family gathers around the table, eager to savor every delicious bite.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Skip the meat and double up on beans and veggies for a satisfying vegetarian version.

2. How long does it take to cook?
   The total bake time is approximately 40-45 minutes, plus prep time of about 15 minutes.

3. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
   Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas with corn; just be sure to adjust layer positioning as they can be delicate.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. What can I substitute for taco seasoning?
   You can make your own blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for a homemade touch.

Layered Burrito Casserole

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A delightful and comforting Tex-Mex casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, black beans, corn, and gooey cheddar cheese between soft flour tortillas.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex
• Diet: Omnivore

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 package Taco Seasoning
• 2 cans Refried Beans
• 1 can Black Beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup Corn (drained)
• 6 large Flour Tortillas
• 1 cup Salsa
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with taco seasoning for 6-8 minutes until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
3. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
4. Begin layering: Start with tortillas, then add half the refried beans, half the cooked beef, half the black beans, half the corn, and a generous amount of salsa. Repeat layers, finishing with a tortilla layer topped with remaining salsa and all the cheddar cheese.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with cilantro.

Notes

Customize with extra veggies like bell peppers or serve with guacamole and tortilla chips.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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