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This saucy wet burrito recipe transforms plain tortillas into a fork-and-knife dinner experience that satisfies even the strongest Mexican food cravings. The combination of savory beef and beans wrapped in soft tortillas, then smothered with enchilada sauce creates that restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
I first made these wet burritos during a game night with friends, and they've become our mandatory menu item whenever anyone requests Mexican food. The way the sauce soaks into the tortillas creates this incredible texture that elevates them beyond basic burritos.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Adds hearty protein and savory flavor as the main filling foundation
- Refried beans: Provide creamy texture and help bind the filling together
- Onion and garlic: Create an aromatic base that enhances the beef flavor
- Taco seasoning: Brings that perfect blend of Mexican spices without measuring individual spices
- Flour tortillas: Work best for wet burritos as they hold up well to the sauce
- Cheddar cheese: Both inside and on top creates that essential melty goodness
- Enchilada sauce: Transforms regular burritos into the wet style for a saucy experience
- Sour cream: Adds cooling creaminess that balances the spices
- Fresh tomatoes and cilantro: Brighten the finished dish with color and freshness
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How To Make Saucy Wet Burritos
- Prepare the filling:
- Cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until fully browned, breaking up any large chunks with a wooden spoon. The beef should have no pink remaining and the onions should be translucent. Drain the excess fat to prevent greasy burritos.
- Create the flavorful mixture:
- Add the refried beans, taco seasoning, and water to the beef mixture, stirring until completely combined. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the mixture to thicken slightly. The consistency should be spreadable but not runny.
- Assemble the burritos:
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them pliable. Place about 1/3 cup of the beef and bean mixture in a line down the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle with about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll from the bottom up, creating a tight bundle.
- Sauce and bake:
- Place the rolled burritos seam side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the burritos, making sure to cover them completely. This sauce is what makes them wet burritos. Sprinkle the remaining cheese generously over the top for that beautiful melty layer.
- Bake to perfection:
- Bake the sauced burritos in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges begin to crisp slightly. The sauce should be bubbling around the edges when done.
- Garnish and serve:
- Top the hot burritos with dollops of sour cream, diced fresh tomatoes, and a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro just before serving. These fresh toppings provide a bright contrast to the rich, savory burritos.
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The enchilada sauce is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its importance when I once tried substituting regular salsa and the texture was completely different. The rich, smooth consistency of authentic enchilada sauce creates that distinctive wet burrito experience that makes you reach for a fork instead of your hands.
Make Ahead Options
These wet burritos are perfect for meal prep or entertaining. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add about 10 minutes to the baking time since you're starting with cold burritos. The flavors actually develop nicely when the burritos have time to sit in the sauce before baking.
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Variation Ideas
The basic wet burrito recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Vegetarians can replace the meat with extra beans, sautéed bell peppers, and corn. If you prefer a spicier experience, add diced jalapeños to the filling mixture or choose a hot enchilada sauce. For a green version, use salsa verde instead of red enchilada sauce and top with Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
These hearty wet burritos shine as the star of your meal, but a few simple sides can round out the dinner nicely. A light green salad with a cilantro-lime dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich burritos. Mexican rice makes an authentic accompaniment that soaks up extra sauce. For a complete fiesta, serve with homemade guacamole, pico de gallo, and crisp tortilla chips. Don't forget the margaritas for the adults for a complete Mexican dinner experience at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork. Adjust seasoning as needed to maintain the rich flavor.
- → What can I use instead of refried beans?
You can replace refried beans with black beans or pinto beans. Mash them slightly for a similar texture.
- → Can these burritos be made in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the burritos, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Add enchilada sauce and cheese just before baking.
- → Are they freezer-friendly?
Yes, wrap the rolled burritos individually in foil or plastic wrap, then freeze. Bake from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator before heating.
- → What toppings pair well with these burritos?
Fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sour cream, guacamole, or sliced jalapeños make excellent additions.