Prepare to embark on a journey of culinary delight with our Easy Baked Burrito Casserole. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that captures the essence of a classic burrito in a comforting casserole form. Join us as we guide you through the steps to create this savory masterpiece, offering insights, variations, and even keto and low-carb alternatives for those seeking a lighter option without compromising on taste.
Ingredients:
For the Burrito Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole Layers:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies (optional for added heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Avocado slices
- Sliced green onions
Instructions:
Preparing Burrito Filling:
- Cook Ground Meat:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Season and Mix:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture. Stir in black beans, corn, salsa, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld.
Assembling the Casserole:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Tortillas:
- In a baking dish, place a layer of tortillas to cover the bottom. Trim if needed to fit the dish.
- Add Burrito Filling:
- Spoon a generous portion of the burrito filling over the tortilla layer, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle Cheese:
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the burrito filling.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the layering process, alternating between tortillas, burrito filling, and cheese until you finish with a layer of cheese on top.
- Optional Heat:
- For those seeking an extra kick, add diced green chilies to one of the layers.
Baking the Casserole:
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Garnishing and Serving:
- Garnish:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, avocado slices, and sliced green onions.
- Serve Warm:
- Slice into portions and serve warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the layers of flavor in each bite.
Cook Notes:
- Tortilla Options: Experiment with whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the burrito filling in advance for a quick assembly on busy days.
- Customize Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or hot salsa and adjusting the quantity of taco seasoning.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the meat for plant-based alternatives or extra veggies for a vegetarian version.
Variations:
Tex-Mex Delight:
- Add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and olives for a Tex-Mex twist.
Enchilada Inspired:
- Roll the burrito filling in tortillas for an enchilada-style casserole.
Breakfast Burrito Casserole:
- Incorporate scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a delightful morning twist.
Keto Version:
- Replace flour tortillas with low-carb alternatives like almond flour tortillas or cabbage leaves.
- Use ground beef or turkey with higher fat content for a keto-friendly option.
- Opt for a low-carb salsa or make your own with fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
Low-Carb Version:
- Choose low-carb tortillas or explore options like lettuce wraps for a carb-conscious alternative.
- Adjust the quantity of black beans and corn to reduce the overall carb content.
- Use a blend of low-carb cheeses to maintain the richness without excess carbohydrates.
Easy Baked Burrito Casserole is a celebration of the flavors that make burritos a beloved culinary delight. With layers of savory goodness and the flexibility to customize, this casserole brings comfort to your table in a convenient form. Whether you follow the classic recipe or venture into variations, each bite promises a fusion of textures and tastes that will leave your taste buds singing. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and immerse yourself in the culinary comfort of Easy Baked Burrito Casserole.
