We’ve all been there – craving something hearty and satisfying that brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine right to our dinner table. That’s exactly what our wet burrito recipe with ground beef delivers! This comfort food masterpiece takes the classic burrito to the next level by smothering it in a rich enchilada sauce that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
Unlike traditional dry burritos that you eat by hand, wet burritos are served on a plate and eaten with a fork – making them perfect for a cozy family dinner. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and that irresistible sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
We gather fresh ingredients to create this hearty wet burrito that delivers bold flavors in every bite. Our carefully selected components work together to build layers of taste and texture.
For the Ground Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade blend)
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Wet Burrito Sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly and Toppings
- 6 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Pickled jalapeños (optional)
- Hot sauce for serving
Equipment Needed
Creating our delicious wet burrito recipe requires several essential pieces of kitchen equipment that will help us achieve perfect results every time. We recommend gathering all tools before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Large Skillet or Frying Pan – We need this primary cooking vessel to brown our ground beef and sauté the aromatics. A 12-inch skillet provides ample space for even cooking without overcrowding the ingredients.
Saucepan – Our enchilada sauce preparation requires a medium saucepan to create the perfect consistency. This allows us to control the heat while whisking our roux and building the flavorful sauce base.
Baking Dish – We use a 9×13 inch baking dish to accommodate our assembled burritos comfortably. This size ensures proper heat distribution and prevents overcrowding during the final baking stage.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements guarantee consistent flavors in our wet burrito recipe. We rely on these tools for both dry seasonings and liquid ingredients throughout the cooking process.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board – Proper preparation of our onions, garlic, and fresh toppings requires quality cutting tools. We recommend keeping our knife sharp for efficient dicing and mincing tasks.
Box Grater – Fresh grated cheese melts more evenly than pre-shredded varieties. We use this tool to prepare our Mexican cheese blend for optimal melting and flavor distribution.
Mixing Spoon or Spatula – We need sturdy utensils to combine our beef mixture and stir our sauce without scratching our cookware. Heat-resistant options work best for continuous stirring during cooking.
Oven or Broiler – Our final assembly requires consistent heat to melt the cheese topping and create that signature bubbly appearance. We preheat to ensure even cooking throughout the baking dish.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly seasoned wet burritos that deliver restaurant-quality flavors at home. Each stage builds upon the previous one to ensure our final dish achieves the ideal balance of textures and tastes.
Prep the Ground Beef Filling
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the 1 lb lean ground beef. Cook the meat while breaking it apart with a spatula until it browns completely and no pink remains. Add the 2 pressed garlic cloves and ½ cup finely chopped onion to the skillet. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Mexican oregano, chili powder, cumin, and black pepper. Add half of the 15 oz can of diced tomatoes in sauce to the mixture. Allow the filling to simmer for 8-10 minutes until the flavors meld together and the liquid reduces slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Wet Burrito Sauce
Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons cornstarch and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Add 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon salt to the mixture. Cook for 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
Slowly pour in 1½ cups chicken stock or beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Stir in ½ cup tomato sauce and 2 teaspoons granulated sugar. Cook the sauce for 4-5 minutes until it thickens to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Keep warm until ready to use.
Warm the Tortillas
Place each large flour tortilla in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side until they become soft and pliable. Alternatively, wrap the tortillas in damp paper towels and microwave for 15-20 seconds. Warming the tortillas prevents cracking during the rolling process and makes assembly much easier.
Assemble the Burritos
Mix the 2 cups refried beans with ¼ teaspoon cumin in a small bowl. Spread an even layer of the seasoned refried beans across the center of each warmed tortilla, leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. Spoon the prepared ground beef mixture over the beans, dividing it equally among the four tortillas.
Sprinkle ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef filling on each burrito. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in both sides. Roll tightly from bottom to top, creating a secure bundle with the seam facing down.
Add the Sauce and Toppings
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly without overlapping.
Pour the warm wet burrito sauce generously over each burrito, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the sauce-covered burritos. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the sauce bubbles around the edges. Serve immediately with your choice of optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped onions, salsa, jalapeños, lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
Directions for Serving
We recommend serving our wet burritos immediately while they’re hot and bubbly from the oven. Place each burrito on individual dinner plates since the enchilada sauce makes eating with hands impractical.
Garnish options enhance both flavor and presentation. We love topping our wet burritos with dollops of cool sour cream that contrast beautifully with the warm, spicy filling. Fresh chopped cilantro adds a bright herbal note while diced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and colorful garnish.
Additional toppings create a customizable experience for each diner. Diced tomatoes bring freshness and acidity that cuts through the rich cheese and sauce. Sliced avocado or prepared guacamole adds creamy texture and healthy fats. For heat lovers, we suggest pickled jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce on the side.
Complete meal accompaniments transform our wet burritos into a feast. Mexican rice makes an excellent side dish that soaks up the extra enchilada sauce. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty burritos. We also enjoy serving salsa verde or pico de gallo alongside for additional flavor layers.
Storage and reheating instructions ensure leftovers taste just as delicious. Refrigerate any remaining burritos covered for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or return the entire dish to a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Our serving approach ensures every bite delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make wet burritos such a beloved comfort food. The combination of warm tortillas, seasoned beef, melted cheese, and rich sauce creates an authentic restaurant-style experience at home.
Make-Ahead Tips
We can streamline our wet burrito preparation with strategic make-ahead techniques that save time without compromising flavor. Our ground beef filling maintains its quality when prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Preparing the enchilada sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. We recommend making the sauce up to 3 days before serving and storing it separately from the beef mixture. This separation prevents the sauce from becoming too thick or the beef from becoming soggy.
| Make-Ahead Component | Storage Time | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef filling | 2 days | Refrigerator, airtight container |
| Enchilada sauce | 3 days | Refrigerator, separate container |
| Assembled burritos | 24 hours | Refrigerator, covered dish |
| Cooked rice | 4 days | Refrigerator, sealed container |
Assembly becomes effortless when we prepare the burritos completely but skip the final baking step. We can roll and arrange the burritos in our baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This method ensures the tortillas maintain their texture while allowing the flavors to develop.
Our cooked rice component stores exceptionally well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. We suggest cooling the rice completely before storing it in sealed containers to prevent moisture buildup. Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice varieties actually improve in flavor when prepared a day ahead.
When we are ready to serve our make-ahead wet burritos, we simply remove the plastic wrap, pour the sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake as directed. The baking time may need an additional 5 to 10 minutes if the burritos are cold from refrigeration.
Batch preparation works particularly well for this recipe. We can double the ground beef mixture and sauce, using half immediately and freezing the remainder in labeled containers for up to 3 months. This approach provides us with quick meal answers for busy weeknights.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage ensures our wet burritos maintain their delicious flavor and texture for future meals. We recommend allowing the burritos to cool completely before storing them to prevent condensation and soggy tortillas.
Refrigerator Storage
Fresh wet burritos keep exceptionally well in the refrigerator when stored correctly. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent the enchilada sauce from forming a skin. Alternatively, we can transfer individual portions to airtight containers for convenient single servings.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Covered baking dish | 3-4 days | Use foil or plastic wrap |
| Airtight containers | 3-4 days | Individual portions work best |
| Wrapped portions | 3-4 days | Plastic wrap prevents drying |
Freezer Storage
Freezing wet burritos extends their shelf life significantly while preserving taste and quality. Wrap individual burritos in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers. This double protection prevents freezer burn and maintains the integrity of our enchilada sauce.
Our frozen wet burritos maintain optimal quality for up to 2-3 months when properly wrapped. Label each package with the date to track freshness and ensure we use the oldest portions first.
Reheating Methods
Multiple reheating options allow us to restore our wet burritos to their original warmth and flavor. Each method produces excellent results when executed properly.
Oven Reheating
Preheat the oven to 350°F for consistent heating throughout. Place refrigerated burritos in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Frozen burritos require 30-40 minutes of covered heating time.
Remove the foil during the final 5 minutes to allow the cheese topping to melt and bubble attractively. This technique recreates the original texture and appearance.
Microwave Reheating
Microwave heating offers the quickest reheating solution for individual portions. Place a damp paper towel over refrigerated burritos to maintain moisture during the 1.5-2 minute heating cycle on high power.
Frozen burritos require overnight thawing in the refrigerator before microwave reheating. This prevents uneven heating and ensures food safety.
Skillet Method
Low heat skillet reheating provides even warming while maintaining the tortilla’s texture. Cover the skillet to create steam and flip the burrito occasionally during the 8-10 minute heating process. This method works particularly well for single servings and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
Recipe Variations
Our wet burrito recipe offers incredible flexibility that allows you to customize the dish according to your preferences and dietary needs. We’ve developed several tested variations that maintain the authentic flavors while accommodating different tastes.
Different Protein Options
Ground turkey serves as an excellent lighter alternative to beef while maintaining the hearty texture we love in wet burritos. We recommend using 93/7 lean ground turkey and adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil during cooking to prevent dryness. Ground chicken works equally well and absorbs the taco seasoning beautifully, creating tender and flavorful filling.
For those seeking richer flavor profiles, we suggest trying ground chorizo mixed with ground beef in a 1:2 ratio. The chorizo adds smoky depth and authentic Mexican taste that elevates the entire dish. Leftover rotisserie chicken, shredded and seasoned with our taco blend, creates quick weeknight variations when time is limited.
Vegetarian Alternative
Black beans and kidney beans create satisfying protein-rich alternatives that replace ground beef entirely. We recommend using two 15-ounce cans of beans, drained and rinsed, then sautéed with onions and garlic using the same seasonings from our original recipe. Adding diced bell peppers and mushrooms provides additional texture and umami flavors.
Our roasted vegetable variation combines zucchini, corn, and poblano peppers for authentic Mexican flavors. Roast the vegetables at 425°F for 20 minutes before seasoning and assembling the burritos. Plant-based ground meat substitutes work seamlessly in this recipe, requiring the same cooking time and seasoning amounts as traditional ground beef.
Spice Level Adjustments
We control heat levels by adjusting chili powder quantities and incorporating fresh peppers strategically throughout the recipe. For mild versions, reduce chili powder to 1 teaspoon and omit jalapeños from both the filling and sauce. Medium heat requires our standard measurements plus one diced jalapeño in the beef mixture.
Spicy variations benefit from doubling the chili powder and adding diced serrano peppers to the sauce preparation. We achieve maximum heat by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, using 1-2 peppers minced into the beef filling. Hot sauce enthusiasts can blend additional cayenne pepper into the enchilada sauce, starting with ¼ teaspoon and adjusting to taste preferences.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to create restaurant-quality wet burritos at home. This ground beef recipe delivers comfort food at its finest with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
The beauty of wet burritos lies in their versatility. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy weeknights or hosting family dinner you can customize every element to suit your preferences.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with our suggested variations and make-ahead tips. Once you master this technique you’ll have a go-to recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
Your kitchen will smell amazing and your family will be asking for seconds. These wet burritos prove that homemade Mexican cuisine can be both simple and impressive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wet burrito and how is it different from a regular burrito?
A wet burrito is a traditional burrito that’s smothered in enchilada sauce and baked with cheese on top. Unlike regular dry burritos that you eat with your hands, wet burritos are served on a plate and eaten with a fork. The sauce and melted cheese create a restaurant-style presentation with enhanced flavors and a comforting, hearty texture.
What ingredients do I need to make ground beef wet burritos?
For the filling, you’ll need ground beef, diced onion, garlic, taco seasoning, refried beans, beef broth, and green chiles. The sauce requires vegetable oil, flour, chili powder, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. You’ll also need large flour tortillas, Mexican cheese blend, and optional toppings like sour cream, cilantro, tomatoes, and avocado.
What kitchen equipment is essential for making wet burritos?
You’ll need a large skillet for browning the beef, a medium saucepan for the sauce, and a 9×13 inch baking dish for assembly. Other essentials include measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife and cutting board, a box grater for cheese, mixing utensils, and an oven for the final baking stage.
How long can I store leftover wet burritos?
Leftover wet burritos can be refrigerated in covered containers for 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual burritos and freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 2-3 months. Always cool completely before storing and reheat thoroughly using oven, microwave, or skillet methods to maintain flavor and texture.
Can I make wet burritos ahead of time?
Yes! The ground beef filling can be prepared 2 days in advance, and the enchilada sauce can be made 3 days ahead. Assembled burritos can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also batch-prepare and freeze components for quick weeknight meals while maintaining authentic flavors.
What are some recipe variations for wet burritos?
You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or chorizo for different flavors. Vegetarian options include black beans, kidney beans, or roasted vegetables. Adjust spice levels by modifying chili powder amounts or adding fresh peppers. These variations maintain authentic taste while accommodating different dietary preferences and heat tolerances.
How do I properly reheat wet burritos?
For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently. For skillet reheating, use medium-low heat with a lid to warm evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce seems dry during reheating.
