The five-layer burrito, popularized by a fast-food chain, is easy to make at home. It consists of beans, ground beef, cheese, and sour cream, double-wrapped in two burrito shells with nacho cheese in between. Avocado, lettuce, and tomato can be added, and a casserole version is also an option.
Ask most kids where Mexican food comes from and the answer will likely be “from a drive-through.” That’s because tacos and burritos have become synonymous with the chain that popularized spicy, cheesy, gooey wraps over the past two decades. One of their offerings, the five-layer burrito, might seem like a one-of-a-kind concoction, but it’s actually easy and inexpensive to duplicate at home. A five-layer burrito is simple beans and ground beef topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream that has been double-wrapped in two burrito shells with a layer of nacho cheese between them.
In other words, a five-layer burrito is simply what’s commonly known as a bean and beef burrito with a twist. Burritos are generally served with melted, gooey cheese wrapped with meat and beans, and most people consider a burrito without sour cream to be heresy. The clever trick to a five-layer burrito is the double wrap, or more specifically, what’s in between the double wrap.
As with a traditional burrito, the beans, meat, and cheese, along with a little sour cream, sit in a fresh burrito shell. This loaded, yet-to-be-unwrapped shell pops into the lap of a second burrito shell that’s been richly coated in nacho cheese. The magical moment occurs when the cook rolls both shells around the beef, bean and cheese filling.
Five-layered burritos might run wild in a Mexican food lover’s dreams, but for the home cook, there’s no reason to stop there. Adding diced or sliced avocado or guacamole not only adds another layer of flavor, but also provides a surprising amount of additional fiber, vitamin C, and other nutritional goodies. Lettuce and tomato are also typically served inside a burrito. Cooks with a little extra time might consider sauteing the onion and garlic to make the burrito rise and sing.
The really smart cooks have come up with an even easier, time-saving way to compose a five-layer burrito. Instead of folding the ingredients into each burrito before they’re wrapped, another five-layer burrito casserole is another option. This also saves wasted food because little tummies may not be able to handle a whole burrito. With a saucepan, the cook can distribute an amount appropriate to the size of the diner.
Start with a large, lightly oiled saucepan. The first layer is simply three or four stacked burrito shells. This is followed by a layer of beans and then one of minced meat. Nacho cheese tops beef and sour cream tops cheese. Another layer of burrito shells covers the casserole, while shredded cheddar cheese tops the burrito shells so it melts and browns slightly before serving.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
