Craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s ready in a snap? We’ve got just the thing with our Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe! This dish transforms simple frozen burritos into a mouthwatering casserole that’s bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe a game-changer is its sheer convenience. We’re taking store-bought frozen burritos and elevating them with a rich enchilada sauce, melty cheese, and a few pantry staples. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy your cravings while keeping prep time to a minimum.
About Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe
Dive into the world of effortless yet mouthwatering meals with our Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe. This dish transforms humble frozen burritos into a sensational casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. We’re thrilled to share how a few simple ingredients can elevate a store-bought staple into a family favorite bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Why Choose Frozen Burrito Enchiladas?
Let’s face it—sometimes we need a meal that’s quick without sacrificing taste. Our Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe is the answer. By using pre-made frozen burritos, we cut down on prep time while still delivering a dish that feels homemade. Smothered in rich enchilada sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese, this casserole offers a delightful mix of convenience and indulgence. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.
The Magic of Simplicity
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. We take everyday ingredients like frozen burritos, canned enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese and layer them into a baking dish for a meal that’s ready in under an hour. The result? A bubbling hot casserole with a crispy cheese top and a savory filling that smells as good as it tastes. As one of our readers put it, “This dish is a game-changer for busy nights!”
Nutritional Snapshot
For those curious about the nutritional content of this comforting meal, we’ve put together a quick overview based on a standard serving size using common ingredients. Keep in mind that values may vary depending on the brand of burritos and sauce used.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
Customizable for Every Palate
Another reason we love this Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe is its versatility. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or bean burritos, this recipe adapts to your taste. Add a kick with spicy enchilada sauce or keep it mild for the kids. Toss in extras like black beans, corn, or diced peppers to boost the flavor and nutrition. We encourage you to make it your own and experiment with toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients for Frozen Burrito Enchilada
We’re thrilled to dive into the heart of our Frozen Burrito Enchilada recipe by listing out everything you need to create this deliciously easy casserole. Using frozen burritos as the base, we transform a simple ingredient into a mouthwatering dish with the help of a few pantry staples. Let’s gather our components to ensure a seamless cooking experience for this crowd-pleasing meal.
Below, we’ve organized the ingredients in the order you’ll use them, with specific preparation notes to keep things clear and efficient. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for leftovers, these items will help you craft a bubbling hot casserole in no time.
- Frozen Burritos: 8 medium-sized burritos (any variety such as beef, bean, or chicken – choose based on preference)
- Enchilada Sauce: 2 cans (15 oz each) of red or green enchilada sauce (opt for mild, medium, or spicy to suit your taste)
- Shredded Cheese: 2 cups of Mexican blend or cheddar cheese (pre-shredded for convenience or freshly grated for richer flavor)
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained to avoid excess liquid)
- Sour Cream: 1 cup (optional for a creamy layer or dollop on top after baking)
- Sliced Black Olives: 1 small can (2.25 oz) (drained for a salty bite – optional)
- Green Onions: 2 stalks (finely chopped for garnish – optional)
- Cooking Spray: Non-stick spray or a light coating of oil (for greasing the baking dish)
With these ingredients ready, we’re set to layer our Frozen Burrito Enchilada into a flavor-packed dish. The combination of enchilada sauce and melted cheese will envelop the burritos, creating an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Keep these items handy as we move to assemble and bake this weeknight wonder.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Getting ready to whip up our Frozen Burrito Enchilada masterpiece requires having the right tools at hand. We want to ensure a smooth cooking process for this quick and easy casserole, so let’s gather the essential equipment that will help us transform those frozen burritos into a bubbling hot dish. With these tools, we’ll streamline prep and baking while keeping the focus on flavor and convenience for those busy weeknights.
Must-Have Kitchen Gear
To create this crowd-pleasing enchilada casserole, we rely on a few key pieces of equipment. Here’s what we need to have ready before diving into the recipe:
- Baking Dish (9×13 inch): A sturdy rectangular dish is crucial for layering our frozen burritos and sauce. It ensures even baking and holds all the cheesy goodness in one place.
- Can Opener: Essential for opening cans of enchilada sauce and diced tomatoes with ease.
- Measuring Cups: Perfect for portioning out the shredded cheese or any additional toppings we might want to add.
- Spatula or Tongs: Handy for arranging the burritos in the dish and serving up hot portions straight from the oven.
- Aluminum Foil: Useful for covering the dish during baking to prevent over-browning and to lock in moisture for a tender result.
- Oven Mitts: A must for safely handling the hot baking dish when it’s time to pull our enchilada casserole out of the oven.
Optional but Helpful Tools
While the basics get us far, a few extra tools can elevate our cooking experience and make cleanup a breeze. Consider these for added ease:
- Non-Stick Cooking Spray Bottle: If we don’t have aerosol spray, a reusable bottle helps grease the baking dish evenly to prevent sticking.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Useful if we decide to slice fresh garnishes like green onions or prep additional toppings on the spot.
- Serving Spoon: Makes dishing out portions of this hearty Frozen Burrito Enchilada a neat and simple task.
Equipment Checklist Table
To keep everything organized, here’s a quick reference table for the tools we’ll use. This ensures we don’t miss a thing while preparing our weeknight-friendly casserole.
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Necessity |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Dish (9×13 inch) | Layering and baking the casserole | Essential |
| Can Opener | Opening sauce and tomato cans | Essential |
| Measuring Cups | Measuring cheese and toppings | Essential |
| Spatula or Tongs | Arranging and serving burritos | Essential |
| Aluminum Foil | Covering dish during baking | Essential |
| Oven Mitts | Handling hot dish safely | Essential |
| Non-Stick Spray Bottle | Greasing the baking dish | Optional |
| Cutting Board and Knife | Prepping fresh garnishes | Optional |
| Serving Spoon | Serving portions neatly | Optional |
With these tools lined up, we’re fully equipped to tackle the Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe with confidence. Each piece of equipment plays a role in making this deliciously simple dish come together effortlessly, ensuring we spend less time fussing over prep and more time savoring the irresistible aroma of enchilada sauce and melted cheese filling our kitchen.
Preparation Steps
Let’s dive into the heart of our Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe and transform those simple frozen burritos into a mouthwatering casserole. With clear steps and a few pro tips, we’ll have a bubbling hot dish ready in no time.
Thawing the Frozen Burritos
First up, we need to prepare our frozen burritos for the ultimate texture in our enchilada casserole. Remove 8 medium-sized frozen burritos from their packaging and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on the defrost setting for about 2-3 minutes or until they are just soft enough to handle but not fully cooked. If you prefer a slower thaw, let them sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes. Pro Tip: Avoid over-thawing as it can make the burritos soggy during baking. Once thawed slightly, arrange them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish in a single layer, ensuring they fit snugly for even cooking. This step sets the foundation for a perfectly layered Frozen Burrito Enchilada that’s packed with flavor.
Preparing the Enchilada Sauce
Let’s whip up the soul of our dish—the enchilada sauce that ties all the flavors together. Open 2 cans (15 ounces each) of your favorite enchilada sauce using a can opener and pour them into a medium mixing bowl. For an extra kick, we love to mix in 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained, to add a zesty pop of flavor. Stir the mixture with a spoon until well combined. Quick Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier blend. Pour half of this vibrant sauce mixture over the arranged burritos in the baking dish, ensuring each one gets a generous coating. Reserve the remaining sauce for topping later. This step infuses our Frozen Burrito Enchilada with that irresistible tangy and savory essence that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the heart of our Frozen Burrito Enchilada Recipe and transform those simple frozen burritos into a mouthwatering casserole. With clear steps and a touch of creativity, we’ll have a bubbling hot dish ready to impress in no time.
Assembling the Enchiladas
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab your 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Burritos: Take your 8 frozen burritos—thawed slightly for best results—and lay them in a single layer in the greased dish. Ensure they fit snugly side by side, filling the dish evenly for uniform baking.
- Pour the Sauce: Retrieve your prepared enchilada sauce mixture (the blend of 2 cans of enchilada sauce and 1 can of diced tomatoes). Pour it generously over the burritos, making sure every inch is coated with that tangy savory goodness. Use a spatula if needed to spread it evenly.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese—cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend—over the top. This layer will melt into a gooey golden blanket that ties the whole dish together.
Pro Tip: For an extra flavor kick, mix in some chili powder or cumin with the sauce before pouring it over the burritos.
Baking the Dish
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap in moisture. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial step ensures the frozen burritos heat through and absorb the rich enchilada sauce.
- Uncover for Crispiness: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil using oven mitts. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly browned. The aroma of melted cheese and spiced sauce will fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the burritos reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a food thermometer if you’re unsure.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the dish cool for 5 minutes. Add optional toppings like sour cream, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions for a fresh contrast to the warm casserole. Use a spatula to serve up hearty portions of this Frozen Burrito Enchilada masterpiece.
Quick Note: Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven or the type of burritos used. Keep an eye on the cheese to avoid over-browning.
| Baking Stage | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered Baking | 30 minutes | 375°F (190°C) | Ensures burritos heat through |
| Uncovered Baking | 10-15 minutes | 375°F (190°C) | For bubbly and browned cheese |
| Internal Temperature Check | N/A | 165°F (74°C) | Confirms safe consumption |
Serving Suggestions
Dive into the delightful experience of serving our Frozen Burrito Enchilada casserole with flair and flavor. We’ve crafted this dish to be a crowd-pleaser and with a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate the meal into a memorable feast. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving ideas will ensure your enchilada casserole shines as the star of the table. Let’s explore how to present and pair this hearty dish for maximum enjoyment.
Plating with Style
Make every serving of our Frozen Burrito Enchilada visually appealing by plating with care. Use a sturdy spatula to lift each portion from the baking dish, ensuring the layers of burrito, sauce, and melted cheese stay intact. Place the enchilada on a warm plate to maintain its comforting heat. Drizzle a bit of extra enchilada sauce over the top for a glossy finish and sprinkle with fresh chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color. If you’ve opted for toppings like sour cream or sliced black olives, add a small dollop or scatter them artistically on the side. This presentation not only looks appetizing but also teases the senses with the vibrant aromas of spicy sauce and herby garnishes.
Perfect Pairings
Enhance your Frozen Burrito Enchilada experience by pairing it with complementary sides that balance the rich and savory flavors. Serve alongside a crisp Mexican-style salad with lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and a zesty lime dressing to cut through the dish’s heartiness. A side of Spanish rice or refried beans adds a traditional touch, soaking up the delicious enchilada sauce and rounding out the meal. For a refreshing contrast, offer a bowl of guacamole or salsa with tortilla chips for dipping. If you’re hosting a crowd, consider a pitcher of margaritas or a non-alcoholic agua fresca to keep the festive vibes flowing. These pairings transform your casserole into a full-blown Mexican-inspired feast.
Customizable Toppings Bar
Set up a toppings bar to let everyone personalize their Frozen Burrito Enchilada just the way they like it. Lay out small bowls with options like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, avocado chunks, and extra shredded cheese. Include condiments such as hot sauce, salsa verde, and sour cream for those who crave an extra kick or creamy texture. This interactive setup not only adds fun to the dining experience but also caters to varied tastes, ensuring every guest leaves satisfied. As we always say, “Make it your own!”—this toppings bar embodies that spirit perfectly.
Serving Size and Portions
To help you plan how much to serve, we’ve put together a quick guide based on the number of guests. Our Frozen Burrito Enchilada recipe typically uses 8 medium-sized burritos, which can be adjusted depending on appetite and occasion.
| Number of Guests | Burritos per Person | Total Burritos Needed | Suggested Baking Dish Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 8 | 9×13 inch |
| 6 | 1.5 | 9-10 | 9×13 inch or slightly larger |
| 8 | 1 | 8 | 9×13 inch |
| 10+ | 1 | 10-12 | Two 9×13 inch dishes |
This table ensures you prepare the right amount of enchilada casserole without running short or having too many leftovers. If you’re expecting heartier appetites, bump up to 2 burritos per person and scale the enchilada sauce and cheese accordingly. We recommend keeping the baking dish size in mind to ensure even cooking and that irresistible bubbly golden top.
Leftover Ideas
Don’t let any of your Frozen Burrito Enchilada go to waste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to restore that freshly baked vibe. Transform leftovers into a new dish by crumbling the enchiladas into a skillet with eggs for a Mexican breakfast scramble or use them as a filling for tacos with fresh toppings. These ideas keep the flavors of your enchilada casserole alive in exciting new ways, ensuring every bite remains a delight.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
We’re thrilled to share our expert advice on preparing and storing your Frozen Burrito Enchilada casserole to keep it tasting as irresistibly delicious as the day you made it. Whether you’re planning ahead for a busy week or saving leftovers for a quick meal, these tips will ensure your dish retains its bubbly cheesy goodness and savory tangy flavors. Let’s dive into the best practices for making this recipe a time-saving star!
Preparing Ahead for Convenience
Planning ahead can transform your weeknight dinners into stress-free feasts. Follow these steps to prep your Frozen Burrito Enchilada casserole in advance:
- Assemble Early: Arrange the frozen burritos in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour over the prepared enchilada sauce mixed with diced tomatoes and sprinkle with 2 cups of shredded cheese as outlined in our recipe steps.
- Cover and Chill: Securely cover the dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Baking Time: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Since the dish is cold from the fridge, add an extra 10 minutes to the initial covered baking time (total of 40 minutes) before uncovering for the final 10-15 minutes to achieve that golden cheesy top.
Pro Tip: Label the dish with the date and baking instructions using a sticky note if you’re prepping multiple meals. It’s a lifesaver for busy days!
Freezing for Future Meals
Want to enjoy your Frozen Burrito Enchilada weeks from now? Freezing is your best friend. Here’s how we do it:
- Assemble Without Baking: Layer the frozen burritos, enchilada sauce, and cheese in the baking dish as per the recipe. Do not bake yet.
- Wrap Securely: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This double-wrap method keeps the casserole fresh and flavorful.
- Label and Freeze: Write the date and contents on the foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Thaw and Bake: When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes covered and 10-15 minutes uncovered or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. If baking from frozen, increase the covered baking time to 50-60 minutes.
| Freezing Guidelines | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Freezing Duration | 2 months |
| Thawing Recommendation | Overnight in refrigerator |
| Baking from Thawed | 30 min covered + 10-15 min uncovered at 375°F (190°C) |
| Baking from Frozen | 50-60 min covered + 10-15 min uncovered at 375°F (190°C) |
Storing Leftovers Like a Pro
Leftovers of this Frozen Burrito Enchilada are a treasure trove of flavor. Here’s how we store them to keep that mouthwatering essence intact:
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature after serving. This prevents sogginess and bacterial growth.
- Portion and Store: Divide leftovers into individual servings using airtight containers or resealable bags. This makes reheating a breeze for quick lunches or dinners.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure containers are sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
- Reheat with Care: Reheat portions in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of water or extra enchilada sauce if it looks dry to revive that saucy texture.
Creative Storage Hacks
We love getting creative with storage to maximize enjoyment of our Frozen Burrito Enchilada. Try these hacks:
- Single-Serve Freezing: After baking, cool the casserole and cut into individual portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Perfect for grab-and-go meals!
- Sauce on the Side: If freezing leftovers, store extra enchilada sauce separately in a small container. Add it during reheating to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
- Toppings Later: Keep garnishes like sour cream, green onions, and olives separate until serving. This preserves their fresh crunch and prevents sogginess.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled to share this Frozen Burrito Enchilada recipe with you as it’s a game-changer for busy nights. It’s all about turning simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort.
If you’ve tried this recipe or added your own twist, we’d love to hear about it. Drop a comment below and let us know how it turned out.
For more quick and delicious meal ideas, stick with us and explore our other recipes. Let’s keep making mealtime easy and exciting together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Frozen Burrito Enchiladas?
Frozen Burrito Enchiladas are a quick and easy casserole made by transforming store-bought frozen burritos into a flavorful dish. By layering burritos with enchilada sauce, cheese, and optional toppings, you create a bubbly, hot meal in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Can I use any type of frozen burrito for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of frozen burrito—beef, chicken, bean, or veggie. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs. Just ensure they’re medium-sized to fit nicely in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
How long does it take to bake Frozen Burrito Enchiladas?
The casserole takes about 30 minutes to bake covered at 375°F (190°C), plus an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered for a golden, bubbly cheese topping. Total cooking time is under 45 minutes.
Can I make Frozen Burrito Enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, adjust the cooking time slightly, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How do I store leftovers of Frozen Burrito Enchiladas?
Cool leftovers completely, then portion them into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual servings, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil, then label it. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
What are some good toppings for Frozen Burrito Enchiladas?
Popular toppings include sour cream, sliced black olives, green onions, diced tomatoes, avocado, or jalapeños. Set up a toppings bar to let everyone customize their serving for added fun and flavor.
What sides pair well with Frozen Burrito Enchiladas?
Complement this dish with a Mexican-style salad, Spanish rice, guacamole, or chips and salsa. These sides enhance the meal’s flavors and make it a complete, satisfying dinner for any crowd.