How long do you cook a frozen chimichanga casserole?

Most frozen chimichanga casserole recipes bake at 375°F for about 40 to 45 minutes. Cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes to help the chimichangas heat through evenly, then uncover it so the cheese can melt and lightly brown. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the chimichangas.

How do you spice up frozen chimichangas for a casserole?

To add more flavor, sprinkle spices like chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, or taco seasoning over the frozen chimichangas before adding the sauce. You can also mix spices directly into the sauce or top the casserole with sliced jalapeños, green chilies, or hot sauce for extra heat.

Can you make enchilada casserole with frozen chimichangas or burritos?

Yes, frozen chimichangas work very well in an enchilada-style casserole. Simply cover them with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly. This frozen chimichanga enchilada bake delivers the same flavors as traditional enchiladas with much less prep.

Do frozen chimichangas need to be thawed before baking?

No, thawing is not required. One of the benefits of a frozen chimichanga casserole is that it can go straight from the freezer to the oven. Baking from frozen helps the tortillas hold their shape while absorbing the sauce as they cook.

Can I add rice or beans to a frozen chimichanga casserole?

Absolutely. Adding cooked rice, black beans, or refried beans is a great way to make the casserole more filling. These ingredients can be layered under or around the frozen chimichangas and help turn the dish into a complete one-pan meal.

What is the difference between a chimichanga casserole and an enchilada bake?

A chimichanga casserole uses fried-style burritos, which have a thicker tortilla and heartier filling. An enchilada bake typically uses softer tortillas rolled around fillings. While both are baked with sauce and cheese, a baked chimichanga casserole tends to be more filling and slightly richer in texture.

Frozen Chimichanga Casserole – Easy Weeknight Tex-Mex Bake

Name: Frozen Chimichanga Casserole (Easy Tex-Mex Family Dinner)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 8 frozen chimichangas (beef, chicken, or cheese); 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green); 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese; 1 cup cooked rice (optional); 1 cup black beans or refried beans (optional); ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional); ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional); Cooking spray or oil, for greasing the dish

Description

Frozen chimichanga casserole is an easy Tex-Mex family dinner made with frozen chimichangas, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. This no-fuss casserole goes straight from freezer to oven, making it perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or comforting make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

8 frozen chimichangas (beef, chicken, or cheese)
2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green)
2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese
1 cup cooked rice (optional)
1 cup black beans or refried beans (optional)
½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
Cooking spray or oil, for greasing the dish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the frozen chimichangas in a single layer in the prepared dish.
If using rice or beans, spread them evenly around or underneath the chimichangas.
Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the chimichangas, coating them well.
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top and add optional spices if desired.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chimichangas do not need to be thawed before baking. For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely. Queso or a creamy sauce can be used instead of enchilada sauce for variation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 980 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 18 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: frozen chimichanga casserole, frozen chimichanga casserole recipe, baked chimichanga casserole, Tex-Mex casserole, easy frozen chimichanga dinner, casserole with frozen chimichangas