Cheesy Burrito Pie is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, layered dish that combines all the flavors of a burrito into a baked casserole-style meal. This crowd-pleasing recipe features layers of seasoned ground beef, beans, tortillas, and a creamy, melty cheese topping that ties everything together. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this dish delivers bold, satisfying flavors in every bite.
This halal-friendly version ensures all ingredients meet dietary guidelines while maintaining the robust taste of the classic dish. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired cuisine or simply love cheesy, layered meals, this Cheesy Burrito Pie is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Layered Perfection: Each bite delivers a combination of meat, beans, cheese, and tortillas, offering a delightful texture and flavor.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, sauces, or spices to make it uniquely yours.
- Family-Friendly: A cheesy, savory dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults.
- Halal Ingredients: Made with halal-certified ground beef and compliant seasonings, this recipe aligns with Islamic dietary guidelines.
- Convenient and Versatile: Perfect for meal prep, freezing, or serving to a crowd, this dish is as practical as it is delicious.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 4g
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound halal-certified ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning (halal-certified)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
For the Layers
- 6 large tortillas (halal-certified, flour or whole wheat)
- 1 1/2 cups salsa (mild, medium, or spicy, to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded halal-certified cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded halal mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt (optional, for added creaminess)
For Topping and Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Halal sour cream or plain yogurt (for serving)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Mix well to coat the beef evenly, then add the black beans and frozen corn (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Burrito Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coating of olive oil.
- Spread 1/4 cup of salsa evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Place one tortilla on top of the salsa.
- Spread a layer of the beef and bean mixture over the tortilla, followed by a layer of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream (if using). Top with another tortilla.
- Repeat the layering process until all tortillas and filling are used, finishing with a tortilla on top. Spread the remaining salsa over the top layer and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Burrito Pie
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the burrito pie from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and sliced jalapeños. Serve with halal sour cream or plain yogurt on the side.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Mini Burrito Pies: Use individual ramekins or small baking dishes to create single-serving portions. Perfect for dinner parties or meal prep!
- Open-Faced Burrito Pie: Skip the top tortilla layer and finish with melted cheese and garnishes for a lasagna-style presentation.
- Taco Pie Casserole: Add layers of crushed tortilla chips between the beef mixture for extra crunch.
- Vegetarian Burrito Pie: Replace the ground beef with extra beans, lentils, or plant-based halal meat for a veggie-friendly option.
- Burrito Pie Bowls: Deconstruct the pie into a layered bowl with rice, tortilla chips, and your favorite toppings.
Additional Tips for Success
- Choose High-Quality Tortillas
Halal-certified tortillas that are fresh and pliable work best for layering. Warm them slightly before assembling to prevent tearing. - Use Halal Ingredients
Ensure your cheese, sour cream, and seasonings are halal-certified for dietary compliance. - Prevent Sogginess
Spread salsa thinly in each layer to avoid making the tortillas too moist. Draining the black beans thoroughly also helps. - Rest Before Slicing
Allowing the pie to rest after baking makes slicing cleaner and ensures the layers hold together. - Customize the Heat Level
Adjust the spiciness by choosing a mild, medium, or hot salsa and adding chili flakes or jalapeños to taste.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken Burrito Pie
Swap the ground beef for shredded halal chicken breast, seasoned with taco spices. This lighter variation pairs well with a smoky chipotle salsa. - Seafood Burrito Pie
Use cooked shrimp or flaked white fish seasoned with lime and cumin for a coastal-inspired twist. - Spicy Burrito Pie
Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the beef mixture and use a spicy blend of cheese for a fiery kick. - Breakfast Burrito Pie
Layer scrambled eggs, beef sausage, and hash browns with cheese and salsa for a hearty breakfast casserole. - Cheesy Vegan Burrito Pie
Replace the ground beef with plant-based halal meat or crumbled tofu. Use vegan cheese and cashew cream for the layers.
Freezing and Storing
Refrigeration
Store leftover burrito pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing
Burrito pie freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep. Assemble the dish as directed, but don’t bake it. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Tips
For best results, reheat the pie in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until heated through. For a quick option, use the microwave, but cover the slice with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Whole Wheat Tortillas
Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber and nutrients. - Lean Meat
Replace ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. - More Veggies
Add a layer of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach between the tortillas for added nutrition. - Low-Fat Cheese
Use reduced-fat cheese or skip the cheese in some layers for fewer calories. - Greek Yogurt
Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a protein-rich, tangy alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Family Dinner
Cheesy Burrito Pie is a comforting, crowd-pleasing option for a family meal. Serve it alongside a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Add lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness and a small bowl of halal sour cream or yogurt as an optional topping. For a kid-friendly twist, include a side of sweet corn or carrot sticks with ranch dressing to keep the little ones happy. Finish the meal with a light dessert, like fruit salad or churros, to round out the flavors. - Game Day Spread
Make Cheesy Burrito Pie the centerpiece of your game-day table by pairing it with classic finger foods. Serve slices with crispy nachos loaded with cheese, jalapeños, and halal salsa on the side. Add guacamole, pico de gallo, and a bowl of halal buffalo wings to complete the feast. To keep the vibe festive, consider offering a few drink options like iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water infused with lime and mint. This hearty spread will keep everyone energized and ready to cheer for their favorite team! - Potluck Favorite
Cheesy Burrito Pie is an ideal potluck dish thanks to its portability and ability to please a crowd. Assemble the dish at home, cover it with foil, and bake it on-site to ensure it’s warm and fresh when served. For an interactive twist, set up a topping bar with cilantro, chopped green onions, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and even extra shredded cheese, allowing guests to customize their slices. Since it’s a filling dish, pair it with lighter sides like fruit skewers, veggie platters, or tortilla chips for dipping. - Holiday Side Dish
Add a festive touch to your holiday spread by incorporating Cheesy Burrito Pie. Garnish the top with finely diced red and green bell peppers arranged in a holiday-inspired pattern. You can also sprinkle a bit of pomegranate seeds or green onions for a pop of seasonal color. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, spiced rice, or cranberry-infused coleslaw for a unique twist. This dish is hearty enough to hold its own among a lineup of holiday favorites and will likely become a standout at the table. - Picnic Ready
Cheesy Burrito Pie is portable and mess-free, making it perfect for picnics or outdoor meals. After baking and allowing the dish to cool slightly, slice it into even squares and wrap each portion in foil or parchment paper for easy transport. Include individual containers of toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole so everyone can personalize their serving. Pair with fresh-cut fruit, tortilla chips, or a light pasta salad for a well-rounded picnic menu. Don’t forget refreshing beverages like iced tea or agua fresca to complete the outdoor experience.
Special Equipment
- 9×13-Inch Baking Dish
A 9×13-inch baking dish is essential for assembling and baking Cheesy Burrito Pie. Its size allows for even layering and ensures the dish bakes evenly, giving you that perfect combination of gooey cheese and hearty fillings. Opt for a ceramic or glass dish for a presentation-friendly option that can go straight from the oven to the table. - Nonstick Spray
Nonstick spray is key to preventing the burrito pie from sticking to the dish, making cleanup much easier. You can also use a light coating of olive oil or butter if you prefer a natural alternative. Be sure to coat the edges and corners thoroughly to avoid any parts of the tortilla catching or tearing. - Large Skillet
A large skillet is indispensable for preparing the filling. It allows ample space for browning the ground beef evenly and mixing in the onions, beans, and corn without spillage. Cast iron or nonstick skillets work well for maintaining consistent heat and preventing sticking during cooking. - Sharp Knife
A sharp knife is crucial for cleanly slicing the burrito pie into portions without tearing the layers. A serrated knife can also be a good option for cutting through the cheese and tortillas evenly. For perfect squares, wipe the blade clean between cuts to maintain a tidy presentation. - Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls come in handy for organizing and prepping your ingredients. Use one for the ground beef mixture, another for combining cheeses, and a third for holding toppings like diced onions and cilantro. Having everything prepped and separated in bowls makes assembly more efficient and keeps your workspace clean.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Use beans, lentils, or plant-based meat as a substitute for ground beef. - What’s the best way to prevent soggy layers?
Use drained beans and spread salsa sparingly to keep the tortillas from becoming too moist. - Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas add a slightly different texture and flavor. - Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the burrito pie up to a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed. - What are good side dishes for burrito pie?
Serve with Mexican rice, guacamole, chips, or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad. - Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking for best results. - How can I adjust the spice level?
Use mild salsa and skip the chili flakes for a milder dish. Add jalapeños or hot sauce for more heat. - Can I use different cheeses?
Of course! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend work wonderfully.
Conclusion
Cheesy Burrito Pie is the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and versatility. Its layers of seasoned beef, beans, tortillas, and gooey cheese make it a comfort food favorite that everyone will love. Whether served for a casual dinner, a festive potluck, or meal prep, this halal-friendly recipe is guaranteed to impress.
With endless customization options and its freezer-friendly nature, this dish is a practical and delicious addition to your recipe collection. Try it today, and enjoy a hearty, cheesy meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Print
Cheesy Burrito Pie
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 1 pound halal-certified ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning (halal-certified)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
For the Layers
- 6 large tortillas (halal-certified, flour or whole wheat)
- 1 1/2 cups salsa (mild, medium, or spicy, to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded halal-certified cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded halal mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt (optional, for added creaminess)
For Topping and Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Halal sour cream or plain yogurt (for serving)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Mix well to coat the beef evenly, then add the black beans and frozen corn (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Burrito Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coating of olive oil.
- Spread 1/4 cup of salsa evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Place one tortilla on top of the salsa.
- Spread a layer of the beef and bean mixture over the tortilla, followed by a layer of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream (if using). Top with another tortilla.
- Repeat the layering process until all tortillas and filling are used, finishing with a tortilla on top. Spread the remaining salsa over the top layer and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Burrito Pie
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the burrito pie from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and sliced jalapeños. Serve with halal sour cream or plain yogurt on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g