7 Layer Burrito Recipe

Craving a craveable, flavor-packed meal that’s as fun to assemble as it is to eat? Say hello to the legendary 7 Layer Burrito—a hand-held bundle of vibrant layers, cozy rice and beans, creamy guac, crunchy lettuce, cheese, and more. Each bite is a glorious mashup of textures and zesty flavors that simply never gets old!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how simple each ingredient is, yet how essential each one becomes when stacked together. Every layer in this recipe—creamy, tangy, fresh, hearty—plays a starring role in what makes the 7 Layer Burrito truly irresistible.

• White Basmati Rice: Fluffy and lightly aromatic, it forms the hearty base of your burrito; using basmati ensures your rice holds up without going mushy.
• Garlic & Onions: These sautéed aromatics perfume your rice and beans, adding depth in every bite—don’t skip!
• Tomato & Tomato Paste: Fresh tomatoes and concentrated paste bring brightness, color, and subtle sweetness to the Mexican rice.
• Cumin & Chili Powder: The secret to that iconic Tex-Mex warmth and a hint of smokiness in your rice.
• Canned Pinto Beans (Roasted Chili & Lime): Convenient, protein-packed, and flavorful—choose a brand with chili and lime for extra zing in your beans.
• Taco Bell Mild Sauce & Taco Seasoning: These add that undeniable, nostalgic Taco Bell punch to your refried beans.
• Avocado: Use a perfectly ripe avocado for the creamiest homemade guacamole.
• Red Onion, Serrano Chili, Garlic, Cilantro, Lime: These goodies add crunch, heat, and sparkle to your guac—customize the chili for your preferred spice level.
• Flour Tortillas (Burrito Size): Soft, supple tortillas are key—warm them first for the easiest rolling.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: Melty, a little spicy, and oh-so-satisfying.
• Lettuce & Fresh Tomatoes: Crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes keep things light and refreshing, balancing the heartier layers.
• Sour Cream: Adds creamy, cooling tang that ties it all together.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to make this 7 Layer Burrito your own! It’s endlessly adaptable—swap in extra veggies, switch up your cheese, or keep things lighter with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Here are some favorite twists to try:

• Go Vegan: Skip the cheese and sour cream (or use dairy-free versions) for a vibrant, plant-based 7 Layer Burrito that’s still brimming with flavor.
• Add Protein: Toss in cooked, shredded chicken, steak strips, or spiced tofu for a heartier meal that sticks with you.
• Spice It Up: Use hot Taco Bell sauce or add sliced jalapeños for an extra fiery kick if you love heat.
• Make It Breakfast: Swap rice for scrambled eggs and add crumbled chorizo to transform your burrito into the ultimate breakfast wrap.

How to Make 7 Layer Burrito

Step 1: Prepare the Mexican Rice

Start by chopping your garlic, onions, and tomatoes—these are the backbone of the rice’s flavor. In your Instant Pot (or stovetop pot), sauté the aromatics in a little avocado oil until fragrant. Add rinsed basmati rice and toast for a couple minutes, then stir in chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Pour in water, salt, cumin, and chili powder, scraping the bottom really well so nothing sticks. Seal and pressure cook for 5 minutes, then let it naturally release for 10—voilà, perfect Mexican rice!

Step 2: Make Refried Beans

While the rice cooks, grab a small pot and sauté more chopped onion in avocado oil until soft and translucent. Dump in your canned pinto beans (with all their flavorful juices), Taco Bell sauce, and taco seasoning. Mash together as they heat, then set aside—these beans should be thick, creamy, and still a bit textured for the best bite in your 7 Layer Burrito.

Step 3: Prep Toppings & Make Guacamole

Chop crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes, and grate your Pepper Jack cheese. For the guac, mash your ripe avocado with red onion, cilantro, garlic, serrano chili, juice of half a lime, and a pinch of salt. Stir it up just until mixed—you want some creamy and some chunky bites for extra texture. Set all the toppings within arm’s reach for smooth assembly later.

Step 4: Warm and Fill the Tortillas

Heat a dry cast iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. Warm each tortilla (about a minute per side) until flexible and steamy. Place one tortilla flat and begin layering: start with refried beans, then a generous scoop of Mexican rice, swoop on sour cream, sprinkle lettuce and cheese, spoon on guacamole, and finish with chopped tomatoes. Each layer matters—stack with love!

Step 5: Fold, Toast & Serve

Fold in the sides of your loaded tortilla, then roll it up burrito style. Spray your pan lightly with avocado oil and toast the burrito, seam-side down, for 3 minutes, until beautifully golden. Flip and toast the other side for a few more minutes, then slice in half and serve hot! Each 7 Layer Burrito will reveal its glorious rainbow cross-section when you cut into it.

How to Serve 7 Layer Burrito

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way! Drizzle each 7 Layer Burrito with your favorite Taco Bell sauce, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, or add an extra dollop of guacamole or sour cream right on top. A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving brings a bright, fresh finish to every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your burrito with crisp tortilla chips and salsa, a simple corn salad, or even a citrusy slaw to complement the savory layers. Black bean soup, street corn, or a chilled agua fresca would be downright dreamy alongside your 7 Layer Burrito feast!

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, cut each burrito in half and spear with a decorative toothpick for a colorful finger-food platter. Or, serve “build your own” style: set out bowls with all seven layers and let friends or family assemble their ultimate burrito masterpiece—interactive and fun for everyone!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover (un-toasted) burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. The beans, rice, and guacamole keep their freshness when stored separately if you want to assemble on demand and guarantee maximum texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, assemble the burritos up to the folding stage (without fresh toppings like lettuce or tomato), wrap individually, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave or oven and add the chilled toppings just before serving for the freshest taste.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap your burrito, place it on a microwave-safe plate, and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 1–2 minutes until hot, or toast it gently in a skillet over medium heat to revive that signature crisp exterior. Add cold toppings like lettuce, guac, and tomato after reheating for the best bite.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you love meals that are playful, satisfying, and bursting with personality, the 7 Layer Burrito truly delivers. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again—so gather your favorite people, stack up those delicious layers, and enjoy every colorful bite!

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