If You Have Beef, Beans, And A Cup Of Bisquick, You Have The Start Of A 30-Minute Cowboy-Style Casserole

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Cowboy beans and cornbread are the classic dish built for long trips. With a few tweaks, this iconic pairing can be transformed into a hearty, rustic casserole worthy of the open trail. Introducing: Bisquick burrito bake. This casserole is inspired by the campfire meals that built the American West, and captures all the burrito flavors foodies love without the meticulous prep work of rolling tortillas. All it takes is some ground beef, shredded cheese, a can of refried beans, and a box of Bisquick. 

To make it, start by browning some ground beef, then add a generous drizzle of taco sauce to the skillet, allowing the meat to simmer. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine Bisquick dry mix with a scoop of refried beans and a splash of water, folding to form a batter-like consistency. As a general jumping-off point, 1 to 2 cups of Bisquick is roughly the right amount per 16-ounce can of refried beans. 

To assemble the casserole, spread the Bisquick mixture across the bottom of a casserole dish, then top it with the prepared ground beef mixture, finishing with a layer of shredded cheese. From there, cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning and pop that casserole in the oven until it's heated through and the cheese is bubbly. The Bisquick base layer will rise as it bakes, forming a craveable crust alongside the structurally supportive beans. 

Low-prep and high-payoff, a Bisquick burrito bake is a cost-effective fill-up that belongs in your weeknight dinner rotation. At Walmart, a 20-ounce box of Betty Crocker Bisquick Pancake and Baking Mix, a pound of All Natural 80% lean 20% fat ground beef, a bag of Great Value Sharp Cheddar Shredded Cheese, and a 16-ounce can of Great Value Traditional Refried Beans currently total around $13 — not bad for a casserole-sized meal.

To yield a heartier casserole, you could also incorporate a cup or two of cooked rice on top of the meat layer, beneath the cheese. Pro tip: Stirring that rice with some salsa before spreading it into the pan gives this casserole a pop of bright acidity and subtle heat, plus an even more luscious moisture component. You could also add canned or frozen corn into the mix. For even more Tex-Mex flair, serve each slice of casserole with a dollop of sour cream and a pinch of diced green onions. 

Craving a fresh element? Pair this cowboy-inspired casserole with Southwest avocado salad on the side. It can be thrown together in just five minutes while the casserole is baking. Bonus points if you wash the meal down with a cup of cowboy coffee.