How to Make the Ultimate Wet Burritos at Home

Wet burritos are a savory, hearty dish that’s perfect for satisfying your Mexican food cravings. Smothered in a flavorful sauce and topped with melted cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or want to indulge in comfort food, wet burritos are the way to go. Follow this recipe to create authentic and delicious wet burritos right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To create the perfect wet burritos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Burritos:

• 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup refried beans (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 6 large flour tortillas

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (10 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheese (extra for topping)
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup sliced jalapeños
• ½ cup guacamole or sliced avocado
• ½ cup sour cream
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef (or shredded chicken) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked. If using ground beef, drain excess grease.
3. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the cooked rice and refried beans to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly and remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Burritos

1. Warm the flour tortillas to make them pliable.
2. Place a generous amount of the filling in the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
3. Fold the sides of the tortilla in, then roll it tightly into a burrito shape.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, combine the enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, chili powder, and cumin. Bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 4: Smother the Burritos

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in a baking dish.
3. Pour the prepared sauce generously over the burritos, ensuring they’re completely smothered.
4. Sprinkle the top with a layer of shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Burritos

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Step 6: Add Toppings

1. Top each wet burrito with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.

Tips for Perfect Wet Burritos

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce like onions, tomatoes, and cilantro elevate the flavors in your burritos.
2. Customize the Protein: Switch up the protein by using shredded pork, grilled steak, or even a plant-based alternative.
3. Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
4. Freezer-Friendly: Wet burritos can be made ahead and frozen. Simply assemble, smother with sauce, and freeze before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Wet burritos pair perfectly with classic Mexican sides like Mexican rice, charro beans, or a fresh side salad. Add tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole for a complete meal.

Why Wet Burritos Are So Popular

Wet burritos are beloved for their combination of flavors and textures. The saucy, cheesy topping complements the savory filling, while the soft tortilla ties everything together. This dish is not only filling but also visually impressive, making it ideal for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about wet burritos is their versatility. You can experiment with various fillings, sauces, and toppings to create a version that’s uniquely yours. For instance, swap out the red enchilada sauce for green sauce or add a creamy queso drizzle on top.

Enjoy your homemade wet burritos, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. These delicious burritos are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation!