Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Beef Enchilada Burrito Casserole! A delightful fusion of flavors and textures, this dish layers seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and zesty sauces all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas, topped with plenty of melted cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. With this recipe, you’ll create a hearty meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this mouthwatering casserole!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic (or 2 teaspoons minced garlic)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4.5 oz diced green chilies (canned or fresh)
• 16 oz refried beans
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 10 oz enchilada sauce
• 15 oz can of beanless chili (such as Hormel)

For Assembly:

• 6 flour burrito tortillas (approximately 12 inches)
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese (such as a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso blanco)
• Minced green onions (for garnish)
• Additional toppings (optional: sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, salsa, etc.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Aromatics:
   • Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
3. Season the Mixture:
   • Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the diced green chilies and mix well to combine all the flavors. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Combine the Sauces

4. Mix in the Sauces:
   • Lower the heat and add the refried beans, tomato sauce, enchilada sauce, and beanless chili. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

5. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Layer the Tortillas:
   • In a 9×13 inch (or similar) baking dish, lay down two flour tortillas, overlapping them slightly to cover the bottom of the dish.
7. Add the Beef Mixture:
   • Spoon half of the beef filling over the tortillas, spreading it evenly.
8. Add Lettuce and Cheese:
   • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded lettuce and 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese over the beef filling.
9. Repeat the Layers:
   • Add two more tortillas, followed by the remaining beef mixture, another cup of shredded lettuce, and another cup of shredded cheese. Finish with the last two tortillas on top.
10. Top with Cheese:
    • Pour any remaining enchilada sauce (if desired) over the top layer of tortillas, then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the entire casserole.

Step 4: Bake

11. Bake the Casserole:
    • Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

12. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with minced green onions and any additional toppings of your choice, such as sour cream, avocado, or salsa. Enjoy your delicious Beef Enchilada Burrito Casserole!

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 460 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

• Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Q2: Can I use a different type of meat?

• Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative works well in this recipe.

Q3: Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?

• Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.

Q4: What can I serve with this casserole?

• This casserole pairs nicely with a side salad, Mexican rice, or even some tortilla chips and salsa.

Q5: How spicy is this dish?

• The spice level depends on the type of diced green chilies and enchilada sauce you use. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for mild sauces and chilies.

Tips for Making the Perfect Beef Enchilada Burrito Casserole

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Ensure you don’t overcook the ground beef, as it will dry out. Cook until just browned, then remove excess fat and proceed with the recipe.
• Customize the Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences. Add black beans, corn, or your favorite vegetables to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
• Use High-Quality Tortillas: Opt for fresh, high-quality flour tortillas to achieve the best texture and flavor. You can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding jalapeños for heat, fresh cilantro for freshness, or diced avocado for creaminess.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing the Casserole: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: To reheat individual portions, place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Beef Enchilada Burrito Casserole is an exciting twist on traditional enchiladas, providing a deliciously satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy beans, zesty sauces, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Embrace the bold flavors and comforting textures of this delightful dish, and enjoy the compliments you’ll receive when you serve it. Get ready to dig in and savor each bite!