Beef Burrito Casserole

Beef Burrito Casserole Recipe from Mexico with Refried Beans and Jack Cheese

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Beef Burrito Casserole is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican flavors and the convenience of casserole cooking. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the rich, savory taste of beef burritos without the hassle of wrapping and rolling individual servings. With layers of refried beans, seasoned ground beef, salsa, and cheese, all baked to perfection, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings the essence of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table.

History

The concept of combining Mexican-inspired ingredients into a casserole form is a relatively modern culinary innovation, emerging as Mexican cuisine became increasingly popular worldwide. The Beef Burrito Casserole, in particular, is a testament to the adaptability of traditional recipes to suit the fast-paced lifestyle of today's families. It retains the core elements of a classic burrito—beans, meat, and cheese—while presenting them in a convenient and family-friendly format.

Ingredients

1 can of refried beans
1 cup of all purpose baking mix
0.25 cup of water
1 lb (454 g) of ground round, browned
16 oz (454 g) jar of medium salsa
1.5 cups of shredded pepper jack cheese
sliced green or black olives

How to prepare

In a greased rectangular pan, combine the first 3 ingredients.
Layer the top with hamburger, salsa, cheese, and olives.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 30 minutes.
Serve with lettuce and sour cream.

Variations

To customize the Beef Burrito Casserole, consider the following variations:
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add a layer of cooked rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.
Include a layer of corn or diced bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Beef Burrito Casserole turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Brown the ground beef thoroughly before layering to ensure it's fully cooked.

- Drain any excess fat from the beef to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.

- Use a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.

- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is best served hot, accompanied by sides of lettuce and sour cream as suggested. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of Spanish rice or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. For best results, ensure the casserole is evenly spread in the pan and covered with cheese before baking to achieve a golden, bubbly top layer.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, consider the following substitutions:

- Gluten-free baking mix instead of all-purpose baking mix.

- Vegan cheese and meat substitutes for a plant-based version.

- Low-fat cheese and lean ground beef for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

The Beef Burrito Casserole can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the casserole in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of guacamole for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp beer or a tangy margarita pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the Beef Burrito Casserole. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a chilled glass of limeade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this Beef Burrito Casserole contains approximately 400-500 calories, making it a hearty meal option. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

This Beef Burrito Casserole contains carbohydrates primarily from the refried beans and all-purpose baking mix. A serving of this casserole provides approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a substantial source of energy.

Fats

The fats in this casserole come from the ground beef, cheese, and to a lesser extent, the refried beans. A serving typically contains about 20-25 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Protein is a key component of this dish, with the ground beef and cheese providing the majority of it. Each serving of the casserole offers around 25-30 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

The Beef Burrito Casserole is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese, iron from the beef, and various B vitamins. Additionally, the salsa and black olives contribute vitamins C and E, respectively.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (from the cheese) and gluten (from the all-purpose baking mix). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Beef Burrito Casserole is a balanced meal option, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, those watching their calorie intake or with specific dietary restrictions should adjust the recipe as needed.

Summary

The Beef Burrito Casserole is a versatile, flavorful dish that combines the best elements of Mexican cuisine in a convenient and family-friendly format. With options for customization and make-ahead preparation, it's a perfect addition to any meal plan.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in Texas. My grandmother, Maria, was known for her delicious Mexican dishes and I always looked forward to spending time in the kitchen with her, learning her secrets.

One day, while rummaging through her old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded index card with the words "Beef Burrito Casserole" scribbled on it in her elegant handwriting. Curious, I asked her about it, and she smiled as she recounted the story behind the recipe.

"Ah, mi hija, this recipe has been passed down in our family for generations," she began. "I learned it from my own mother, who learned it from her mother before her. It's a simple dish, but one that always brings our family together around the table."

Intrigued, I begged her to teach me how to make it. And so, we set to work in the kitchen, gathering the ingredients and preparing the casserole step by step. Ground beef, onions, garlic, beans, and spices sizzled in a pan, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma. We layered tortillas, cheese, and the beef mixture in a baking dish, then popped it in the oven to bake.

As the casserole cooked, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, growing up in a small village in Mexico. She told me how her mother would gather the family around the table each night, serving up hearty, comforting meals like this one. And as we sat down to enjoy the Beef Burrito Casserole together, I felt a deep connection to my heritage and the women who came before me.

From that day on, Beef Burrito Casserole became a staple in our family's meals. I would often make it for friends and neighbors, who would rave about its savory flavors and comforting warmth. And as I grew older and ventured out into the world, I carried the recipe with me, sharing it with new friends and loved ones along the way.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own special touch here and there. Sometimes I'll throw in some diced peppers for a bit of heat, or switch out the ground beef for shredded chicken. But no matter how I prepare it, the Beef Burrito Casserole always brings smiles to the faces of those who taste it.

I like to think that every time I make this dish, I am honoring the legacy of my grandmother and the generations of women who came before her. Their love and passion for cooking has been passed down to me, and I am grateful for the memories and flavors that fill my kitchen each time I prepare this recipe.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of simmering beef and beans on the stove, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. The recipe for Beef Burrito Casserole may have originated in my grandmother's kitchen, but it has become a part of my own story, weaving together the past and the present in a tapestry of flavors and memories.

And as I take a bite of the steaming casserole, savoring the rich blend of spices and textures, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring us together, to nourish both body and soul. In this simple dish, I find a connection to my roots, a reminder of the love and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today.

So here's to Beef Burrito Casserole, a recipe that has stood the test of time and continues to bring joy and comfort to all who taste it. May its flavors linger on the tongues and in the hearts of those who share in its delicious bounty, just as it has for me and my family for generations to come.