Wet Burritos, a hearty and indulgent variation of the traditional Mexican burrito, are a popular dish in Mexican-American cuisine. They are known for their rich flavors and generous size, making them a filling and satisfying meal.
The key feature of a Wet Burrito is that it’s smothered in sauce and often cheese, distinguishing it from the more common, wrapped-and-portable burrito. This dish typically starts with large flour tortillas, which are more pliable and larger than corn tortillas, allowing for ample filling and easy rolling.
The filling for Wet Burritos usually includes a combination of seasoned meats and beans. Ground beef or shredded chicken are common choices, cooked with a blend of spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic. Refried beans or whole black or pinto beans are also included, adding texture and protein. This meat and bean mixture forms the hearty base of the burrito.
Alongside the meat and beans, other fillings might include cooked rice, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Some variations also include sautéed onions and peppers, adding a sweet and savory element. The fillings are carefully layered within the tortilla, which is then rolled to enclose everything snugly.
Once rolled, the burrito is covered in a sauce. The most common sauces used are red enchilada sauce or green tomatillo sauce, depending on the desired level of heat and flavor profile. The sauce is generously poured over the top of the burrito, ensuring every inch is covered.
The final touch is a layer of shredded cheese, typically a melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack. The burrito is then baked or broiled until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is heated through.
Wet Burritos are often served with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and sides like guacamole or pico de gallo. The combination of the soft tortilla, rich and flavorful fillings, tangy sauce, and melted cheese creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a comfort food favorite.
Due to its size and saucy nature, a Wet Burrito is usually eaten with a knife and fork, making it a more sit-down, plate-required version of the classic burrito. This dish is popular in Mexican restaurants and is especially beloved for its comforting and indulgent qualities.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2Advertisementscup chopped onion
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 4.5 oz diced green chile peppers
- 16 oz refried beans
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 10 oz enchilada sauce
- 15 oz chili no-beans (Hormel)
- 6 flour burrito tortillas (about 12 inches)
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Any additional desired toppings
How To Make Wet Burritos
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium high heat. Cook and stir until evenly browned and onion begins to soften. Click for a medium skillet.
- Drain grease, and season with the garlic, cumin, salt and pepper. Stir in the green chilies and refried beans until well blended. Turn off heat, but keep warm.
- In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, no-bean chili, and enchilada sauce. Whisk together until mixed well, and cook over medium heat until heated through. Turn off heat and keep warm. Click for a whisk.
- Divide the beef and bean mixture into 6 portions in the pan.
- Place a burrito sized tortilla on a plate and place 1/6 of the ground beef mixture onto the center.
- Top with a little cheese and lettuce. Leave the lettuce out if you don’t want it baked inside. You can substitute or add other veggies as well.
- Fold in the left and right side of the tortilla over the filling, holding in place with your fingers. Then fold in the top and bottom sides of the tortilla over the filling (like an envelope) making sure to overlap well so no filling can escape.
- Repeat with the other 5 tortillas.
- Place seam side down in two greased 9 x 13 oven safe dishes. Click for a 9 x 13 baking dish.
- Pour the entire saucepan of the sauce over the top of the burritos.
- Top with the remaining cheese sprinkled over all evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until burritos are heated through and cheese is melted.
- Top with more lettuce, tomato, sour cream and dried chives, or your choice of toppings.
