Fiesta Burrito Casserole
A flavorful and hearty casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheese wrapped in tortillas, perfect for a satisfying family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together taco seasoning and tomato juice.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, stirring to crumble.
- Pour off excess fat from the beef.
- Stir in refried beans and 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the tomato mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Place a generous spoonful of beef-bean filling on each tortilla.
- Sprinkle with lettuce (if desired) and cheese.
- Roll up each tortilla.
- Save about 1/2 cup of cheese for topping and sprinkle on the rolled tortillas before baking or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or lean beef instead of regular ground beef. You can also substitute low-sodium taco seasoning and tomato juice to reduce sodium levels. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils in place of the beef. Adding diced bell peppers or corn can enhance the flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Fiesta Burrito Casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Hearty Taco Dip Supreme for an impressive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fiesta Burrito Casserole contains roughly 357 calories, with 20g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 844mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and bake it when you're ready to serve. If you do this, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
If you're looking for alternatives to flour tortillas, corn tortillas work well and add a different flavor. You could also try using lettuce wraps for a low-carb version. Just be sure to adjust the assembly method accordingly, as corn tortillas may require a little more care when rolling.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble it without baking, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).