Looking for the ultimate comfort food that layers bold Tex-Mex flavors into one gooey, satisfying bake? The Layered Burrito Casserole is exactly that. Think of it as the love child between enchiladas and lasagna, loaded with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, melty cheese, and soft tortillas stacked into a bubbling masterpiece. Each forkful gives you spicy, cheesy, meaty goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, this casserole is not only hearty but also flexible. You can adjust the spice, swap in chicken or turkey, or make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and doubling the beans and veggies. It’s a dish that invites creativity while delivering comfort every time.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?

Flour tortillas are the classic choice here because they hold up beautifully between layers without getting too soggy. If you want extra texture, you can use a mix of flour and corn tortillas, but stick with flour for the base to keep everything sturdy.

Ingredients for the Layered Burrito Casserole

Ground Beef: Brings a savory, spiced backbone to the casserole; you can swap for ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
Black Beans: Add heartiness and fiber, plus they soak up the spices wonderfully.
Corn: Gives bursts of sweetness and color that balance the spicy and cheesy layers.
Salsa or Enchilada Sauce: Acts as the sauce that binds it all, providing moisture and kick.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey, golden layers on top and in between.
Flour Tortillas: Create the structure and hold all the fillings together.
Taco Seasoning: Infuses the meat with Tex-Mex flavor; homemade or store-bought works.
Cilantro (optional): For a fresh, herby finish on top.

How To Make the Layered Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water; let it simmer for a couple of minutes to soak up the flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Filling

Add black beans, corn, and half of the salsa or enchilada sauce to the seasoned beef. Stir well so everything is evenly combined and warmed through.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, place a layer of flour tortillas. Spoon over a portion of the meat mixture, sprinkle with cheese, then repeat layers until everything is used up. Finish with a generous layer of cheese and the remaining salsa or sauce on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let it cool slightly before slicing. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Serving and Storing the Layered Burrito Casserole

This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven, with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or a fresh green salad. Leftovers store beautifully—just cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

What other proteins can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken work great. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more beans and veggies.

How can I make it spicier?

Use a spicy salsa, add chopped jalapeños, or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack adds extra creaminess and flavor.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

You might also like the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole, a comforting twist on a classic favorite. Or try the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for a creamy, veggie-packed bake.

For meat lovers, check out the Sloppy Joe Casserole or the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, both hearty and satisfying. If you’re craving something with a spicy kick, the Taco Bake Casserole might hit the mark.

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you swap the protein? Did you add extra toppings? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own!

Layered Burrito Casserole

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting Tex-Mex bake that layers seasoned beef, beans, corn, tortillas, and cheese into a hearty casserole. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 packet taco seasoning

1/4 cup water

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)

2 cups salsa or enchilada sauce

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

8 medium flour tortillas

Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain fat, add taco seasoning and water, and simmer 2 minutes.
Stir in black beans, corn, and half the salsa or enchilada sauce.
In a greased baking dish, layer tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese. Repeat layers, ending with cheese and remaining salsa on top.
Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly.
Let cool slightly, garnish with cilantro, and serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner