This Layered Burrito Casserole is a warm, cheesy, flavor-packed comfort dish that brings all your favorite burrito ingredients together in a single, satisfying bake. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, each layer offers a hearty blend of spiced beef, creamy beans, melty cheese, and tortillas that hold it all together.

What makes this dish shine is its effortless assembly and incredible versatility. It caters to picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers, the flavors only get better. It’s Tex-Mex meets classic casserole, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?

Flour tortillas are best for this casserole because they become soft and absorb the saucy flavors without breaking apart. Corn tortillas can be used too, but they will have a firmer bite and stronger flavor. Whichever you choose, make sure they’re soft and fresh for easy layering.

Ingredients for the Layered Burrito Casserole

Ground Beef
Adds a savory, protein-rich base to the dish, seasoned to perfection with taco spices.

Taco Seasoning
Gives the beef that signature Tex-Mex flavor, rich in cumin, paprika, and garlic.

Refried Beans
Creamy and comforting, they provide texture and help bind the layers.

Black Beans
Adds heartiness and extra fiber, balancing the richness with their earthiness.

Corn
Brings a sweet pop and slight crunch that livens up every bite.

Salsa
Infuses moisture and flavor, combining tomato tang with spicy kick.

Flour Tortillas
Work as the structural base and layers of the casserole, holding all the goodness together.

Cheddar Cheese
Melts into gooey perfection, topping every layer with golden, cheesy comfort.

Fresh Cilantro (optional)
Adds a bright, herbal finish that cuts through the richness beautifully.

How To Make the Layered Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the fat and stir in the taco seasoning with a splash of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the refried beans with the black beans and corn. Stir until evenly mixed. This combo adds both creaminess and hearty texture to the casserole layers.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Place two tortillas on the bottom of the baking dish, trimming them to fit. Spread a third of the bean mixture, a third of the taco beef, a few spoonfuls of salsa, and a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat this process twice more, ending with cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly with golden edges.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or sliced green onions if you like. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa on the side.

How to Serve and Store This Layered Burrito Casserole

Serve the casserole warm, straight from the oven, sliced into hearty portions. It pairs perfectly with sides like Mexican rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. For extra flair, add a dollop of sour cream, a scoop of guacamole, or a drizzle of hot sauce on top.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil, and reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the casserole from getting soggy?

Make sure your tortillas are fresh and your ingredients are well-drained, especially the beans and corn. Also, don’t overload the layers with too much salsa.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this recipe and makes it a bit lighter. Just season it well to keep that bold flavor.

What cheese melts best for this casserole?

Cheddar is classic, but you can also use a mix of Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a Mexican blend for extra creaminess and stretch.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can fully assemble it up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to retain moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free tortillas and double-check your seasoning mix, it can be made entirely gluten-free.

Want More Dinner Casserole Ideas?

If this Layered Burrito Casserole hit the spot, here are more comforting dinner ideas to keep your menu fresh:

Try the cheesy goodness of Easy Lasagna Roll Ups for another layered favorite.
For a fun Tex-Mex twist, the Easy Sheet Pan Taco Pizza is a weeknight winner.
Craving more comfort food? The Loaded Taco Beef Casserole brings bold flavors in every bite.
Don’t miss out on the cozy One Pot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta that combines hearty pasta and beefy richness.
Add some creaminess to your evenings with Creamy Garlic Chicken Parmesan Pasta Delight.

These dishes are just as satisfying and full of flavor as today’s casserole.