Wet Burritos are a delicious twist on a classic favorite, offering a satisfying blend of hearty fillings and a rich, savory sauce that transforms simple burritos into a comforting, gourmet meal. In this recipe, tender ground beef is cooked with aromatic onions, garlic, and a medley of spices, then combined with refried beans and diced green chilies to create a robust, flavorful filling. This mixture is then carefully wrapped in soft, burrito-sized flour tortillas before being smothered in a luscious tomato-based sauce mixed with no-bean chili and enchilada sauce. Baked to perfection, the wet burritos emerge with melted, bubbly cheese and a beautifully melded flavor profile that offers both a hearty bite and a touch of spice. Each mouthful delivers the satisfying contrast of tender meat, creamy beans, and a tangy, spicy sauce that truly elevates the humble burrito to a new level of deliciousness.
What makes these Wet Burritos especially appealing is their versatility and ease of preparation. The recipe allows you to combine familiar ingredients like ground beef, refried beans, and shredded cheese with a uniquely crafted sauce that ties the entire dish together. As the burritos bake, the sauce soaks into the tortillas and filling, resulting in an irresistibly moist and flavorful dish. Perfect for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or a comforting weeknight meal, these wet burritos are both filling and fun to eat. They offer a delightful mix of textures—from the soft, tender filling to the slightly crisp edges of the baked tortilla—while the toppings like shredded lettuce and chopped green onions add a refreshing crunch and burst of color. Get ready to enjoy a meal that is as visually appealing as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Hearty and Flavor-Packed: Every bite delivers a rich mix of seasoned meat, beans, and a tangy, spicy sauce that melts beautifully with cheese.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of baked burritos and savory sauce creates a warm, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
• Versatile and Fun: Customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4.5 oz diced green chile peppers (1 small can)
• 16 oz refried beans (1 can)
• 8 oz tomato sauce (1 small can)
• 15 oz no-bean chili (1 can, Hormel recommended)
• 10 oz enchilada sauce (1 small can)
• 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-sized, about 12 inches)
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Additional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, jalapeños (optional)
Detailed Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking and perfectly melted cheese.
2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion softens (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix in the diced green chiles and refried beans until the filling is heated through. Remove the skillet from heat and keep the filling warm.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, no-bean chili, and enchilada sauce. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, then heat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble the Burritos: Lay one flour tortilla on a clean surface. Add a portion of the warm filling, a layer of shredded cheese, and a bit of shredded lettuce (if using). Fold the tortilla into an envelope-style burrito and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
5. Top and Bake: Once all burritos are assembled, pour the prepared sauce evenly over them and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the burritos are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Let the burritos cool for a few minutes before garnishing with shredded lettuce, chopped green onions, and any additional toppings. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips
• For an extra burst of flavor, warm the tortillas slightly before assembling to make them more pliable.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra diced green chiles or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Use a generous amount of sauce to ensure the burritos remain moist during baking.
• For a cleaner presentation, spoon the filling neatly in the center of each tortilla before rolling.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
• Reheating: To maintain moisture and flavor, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave if possible. Enjoy your Wet Burritos as a comforting, delicious meal anytime!
