Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole Recipe

The Best Creamy Burrito Casserole Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Crafting a mouthwatering creamy burrito casserole brings comfort right to your dinner table.

Layers of rich flavors dance between soft tortillas and seasoned meat.

Cheese melts into every delectable corner, creating a hearty meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers pure satisfaction.

Mexican-inspired ingredients combine in a simple yet impressive dish that sparks conversation.

Home cooks will appreciate how quickly this casserole comes together with minimal effort.

You’ll want seconds before the first bite is even finished – trust me on this delightful culinary adventure.

How To Make Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to 375°F and generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown The Beef

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into tiny crumbles until no pink remains.

Step 3: Season The Meat

Drain beef fat and add these flavor boosters:
  • Taco seasoning
  • Chili powder
  • Garlic powder

Stir thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.

Step 4: Add Black Beans

Mix drained black beans into the seasoned meat, letting the flavors dance together for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Milk

Blend until silky smooth.

Step 6: Build First Layer

Tear tortillas and create a slightly overlapping base in the baking dish.

Step 7: First Meat Layer

Spread half the meat and bean mixture across the tortilla foundation.

Step 8: First Cream Layer

Pour half the creamy sauce over the meat, allowing it to seep between layers.

Step 9: First Cheese Sprinkle

Shower a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese across the surface.

Step 10: Repeat Layers

Duplicate the layering process with remaining tortillas, meat mixture, cream sauce, and cheese.

Step 11: Final Toppings

Adorn the casserole with:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Salsa
  • Remaining cheese

Step 12: Initial Baking

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 13: Finish Baking

Remove foil and continue baking 10-15 minutes until cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 14: Rest And Set

Allow casserole to rest 5-7 minutes after removing from oven.

Step 15: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and optional cilantro. Serve piping hot and enjoy!

Tips To Nail Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole

  • Boost Meat Flavor: Bloom taco seasoning in the skillet with the beef to intensify its aromatic spices and create deeper, more complex taste profiles.
  • Prevent Soggy Bottom: Use slightly stale or day-old tortillas to absorb excess moisture and maintain a crisp texture throughout the casserole.
  • Dairy-Free Swap: Replace cream of chicken soup and sour cream with coconut milk and cashew cream for a lactose-free alternative that maintains creamy consistency.
  • Control Spice Level: Adjust chili powder and taco seasoning quantities to match your heat preference, ensuring a personalized dining experience.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve for maximum convenience.

Creative Variations Of Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole

  • Vegetarian Taco Casserole: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced tofu, maintaining the same spice blend and layering technique for a meatless version.
  • Chicken Enchilada Swap: Substitute ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken, using enchilada sauce instead of cream of chicken soup for a zesty alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, and select a gluten-free cream of chicken soup to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap dairy cheese with cashew-based cheese shreds, use coconut milk instead of regular milk, and select a dairy-free cream soup substitute for lactose-intolerant individuals.

What Goes With Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole

  • Zesty Margarita Pairing: Complement the bold, spicy flavors of the casserole with a classic margarita featuring fresh lime juice and a salt-rimmed glass, cutting through the rich, creamy textures.
  • Cool Sour Cream Complement: Top the casserole with a dollop of fresh sour cream or homemade pico de gallo to balance the warmth and add a bright, tangy contrast to the hearty dish.
  • Mexican Cerveza Match: Select a crisp, light Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo to refresh the palate and harmonize with the dish's robust southwestern flavor profile.

How To Store Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole Right

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2-3 months. Place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil to prevent drying, heat for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove foil for last 5 minutes to crisp cheese.
  • Transfer individual portions to microwave-safe dish.

FAQs About Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole

  • Is this dish spicy?

The heat level depends on your taco seasoning and salsa choice. You can control spiciness by selecting mild or hot versions of these ingredients.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly and creates a leaner version of this casserole while maintaining great flavor.

  • Do I need fresh tortillas?

Day-old or slightly stale tortillas actually work best for this recipe. They absorb the creamy sauce better and provide a more robust texture.

  • What if I'm lactose intolerant?

Substitute dairy ingredients with lactose-free alternatives like lactose-free sour cream, milk, and cheese to enjoy this dish without digestive issues.

Why Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole Is So Comforting

  • Conquer Comfort Food: Dive into a hearty casserole that combines the bold flavors of tacos with the comforting embrace of a creamy, cheesy dish perfect for satisfying hunger.
  • Simplify Meal Prep: Craft a crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal kitchen skills, using basic ingredients and straightforward layering techniques that make cooking a breeze.
  • Customize Your Feast: Personalize the casserole with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, extra salsa, or a dollop of guacamole to match your taste preferences and spice level.
  • Feed a Hungry Crowd: This recipe scales beautifully to feed a large family or group, making it ideal for potlucks, game nights, or casual weekend gatherings with friends.

Everything You Need For Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole

For the Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base that provides the main protein for the casserole.
  • Black Beans: A nutritious addition that adds texture and extra protein to the dish.
For the Base:
  • Tortillas: Soft tortilla pieces that create a comforting layered foundation for the casserole.
For the Binding and Creamy Elements:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: A rich and creamy ingredient that helps bind the casserole layers together.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creates a smooth, velvety texture to the dish.
  • Milk: Helps thin the sauce and create a cohesive mixture.
For the Seasonings:
  • Taco Seasoning, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder: Spices that provide depth and authentic Mexican-inspired flavor to the meat.
For the Cheese and Toppings:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the casserole.
  • Diced Tomatoes, Salsa: Bring freshness and extra moisture to the dish.
  • Green Onions, Cilantro: Fresh herbs that add brightness and color as a final garnish.
For the Baking and Preparation:
  • Aluminum Foil: Used to cover the casserole during initial baking to prevent excessive browning.
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Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole Recipe

Delicious Creamy Burrito Casserole Recipe


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4.7 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Cheesy Mexican Burrito Casserole brings comfort and zest to dinner tables with layers of spicy ground beef, tortillas, and melted cheese. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a satisfying meal that will transport you straight to the heart of authentic Mexican cuisine.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 package large flour tortillas

Sauce and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk

Seasoning and Garnish:

  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and thoroughly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbly pieces until no pink remains.
  3. Drain excess fat from the beef, then sprinkle taco seasoning, chili powder, and garlic powder into the meat, stirring to distribute evenly and develop rich flavors.
  4. Incorporate drained black beans into the seasoned meat mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together for 2-3 minutes.
  5. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and creamy.
  6. Layer the bottom of the baking dish with torn tortilla pieces, creating a slightly overlapping base.
  7. Spread half of the meat and bean mixture directly over the tortilla layer, ensuring even coverage.
  8. Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over the meat, allowing it to seep between the layers.
  9. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese across the surface.
  10. Repeat the layering process with remaining tortillas, meat mixture, cream sauce, and cheese.
  11. Top the casserole with diced tomatoes, salsa, and remaining cheese.
  12. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  13. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  14. Let the casserole rest for 5-7 minutes after removing from oven to set.
  15. Garnish with chopped green onions and optional cilantro before serving hot.

Notes

  • Make tortilla pieces smaller for easier serving and more even distribution throughout the casserole.
  • Choose low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat cheese to create a lighter version of this hearty dish.
  • Consider using ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner protein option that maintains the same delicious flavor profile.
  • Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing flavors to develop more intensely.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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