Burrito Bake

Who doesn’t love a simple, quick and tasty dinner? Burrito casserole is one of those dishes that should become one of your go-to weeknight meals now if it’s not already. You can follow this recipe to a tee or make it your own by substituting meat for more beans and playing around with different toppings. Serve this burrito casserole by itself (it’s certainly flavorful and hearty enough to be the main attraction) or pair it with avocado salad or cilantro-lime rice for a Tex-Mex dinner that’ll leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients for Burrito Casserole

• Ground beef: Lean ground beef (that’s 80% lean) saves 45 calories per 4 ounce serving of beef and is also 29% lower in saturated fat.
• Refried beans: You could also use half a can of refried beans and half a can of pinto or black beans if you want more texture.
• Onion: Onion is a non-negotiable in this casserole; it adds complexity and body to the dish.
• Taco seasoning: For a truly flavorful casserole, a packet of taco seasoning goes a long way. (In fact, it’s a good idea to keep some on hand to flavor other dishes.)
• Crescent rolls: Flour tortillas would also work well here.
• Cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar cheese for more flavor. Sharp cheddar has been aged longer than regular cheese, which makes its flavor more pronounced.
• Mozzarella cheese: You could easily use another type of cheese if desired, like Monterey Jack, pepper jack or even Parmesan. Make sure it is part-skim.
• (Optional) Chopped green pepper, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes and sliced ripe olives: All of these make for excellent toppings, or feel free to get creative and add your own. Sliced avocado, green onion, chives, sour cream and extra cheese are also tasty toppings.

Directions

Step 1: Cook beef

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, cook and crumble beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain the beef and add beans, onion and taco seasoning.

Step 2: Unroll the crescent dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it onto the bottom and sides of a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Seal the seams and perforations.

Step 3: Bake casserole

Spread the beef mixture over the crust and sprinkle with cheese. Bake, uncovered, until golden brown (about 30 minutes). If desired, sprinkle with toppings.

Burrito Casserole Variations

• Sub beef for chicken: Shredded chicken makes for a great addition to this casserole, in place of beef.
• Add salsa verde: Homemade salsa verde is a delicious pairing for burrito casserole.

How to Store Burrito Casserole

Place your leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days.

Can you freeze burrito casserole?

Yes, you can freeze burrito casserole. Place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container and it will stay good for up to three months.

Burrito Casserole Tips

What should I serve with the burrito casserole?

Cilantro-lime rice, avocado salad or grilled corn salad would all pair nicely with this casserole.

How can I make burrito casserole more nutritious?

Add more veggies like bell peppers (which are delicious in this casserole), use lean ground beef or chicken and serve with a salad.

 Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes. Leave out the meat and use extra beans or a plant-based meat alternative.