
Saucy wet burritos are exactly what you want when you need something cozy cheesy and full of bold flavor straight from your own oven These burritos come bubbling out with a blanket of rich homemade sauce golden melted cheese and toppings that let you make every plate your own
I still remember the moment my family first tasted these everyone was silent until that first bite then all you could hear were happy sighs and forks scraping plates
Ingredients
- Ground beef: brings the savory fullbodied flavor that is classic for burritos look for lean ground beef to keep things from getting greasy
- Small onion: adds gentle sweetness and depth choose a firm onion with no soft spots
- Fresh garlic: punches up the flavor and goes further than preminced
- Cumin and chili powder: layer in essential warmth and that unmistakable TexMex taste use fresh spices for best results
- Refried beans: add creamy texture and extra protein totally optional but you will get a richer filling if you use them
- Large flour tortillas: are perfect for wrapping without splitting choose soft fresh ones from the bakery section
- Shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend: is melty and helps everything hold together look for bold sharp cheese if you want a richer taste
- Red enchilada sauce: makes the signature wet coating choose a brand with a short ingredient list for the richest flavor
- Tomato sauce: rounds out the tang in the main sauce look for plain sauce without added sugar
- Garlic powder and extra cumin: give the sauce an extra punch use fresh spices to avoid a flat tasting sauce
- Salt and pepper: pull everything together
- Sour cream: is for serving cold and creamy against the hot burrito
- Chopped fresh tomatoes and cilantro: are bright finishing touches use ripe firm tomatoes and fresh herbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is thoroughly browned and onion is softened about seven minutes Drain off excess fat This is your flavor foundation so take your time Stir in minced garlic cumin and chili powder then salt and pepper to taste Cook about one minute longer to let the spices bloom Mix in refried beans if using and set aside
- Make the Sauce:
- Combine red enchilada sauce tomato sauce cumin and garlic powder in a small saucepan Set heat to low and let it simmer gently for about five to seven minutes stirring now and then This melds the flavors for a richer sauce Set aside
- Assemble the Burritos:
- Lay each tortilla on a clean surface Spoon enough beef filling into the center so you can roll it up without overfilling Sprinkle some cheese over the filling Roll firmly tucking in edges so nothing leaks and place burritos seam side down in your baking dish
- Smother and Bake:
- Pour your warm sauce generously over the assembled burritos making sure every corner is coated Scatter the rest of your cheese over the top Bake in a hot oven at three seventy five degrees for fifteen to twenty minutes Cheese should be deeply melted and beginning to bubble around the edges
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer each burrito to a plate Add a spoonful of sour cream on top a sprinkle of chopped tomatoes and a dusting of cilantro These toppings are the contrast in color and flavor and make each bite pop

My favorite part is always the bubbly sauce and cheese crust on top When I make this for family gettogethers everyone wants extra sauce and fights over those extra cheesy edge pieces I always double the sauce for sauciness lovers
Storage Tips
Let leftover burritos cool before transferring to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days For best texture reheat in the oven otherwise a microwave is fine If you plan to freeze wrap burritos without sauce in foil or plastic then add sauce and bake straight from the freezer
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not eat beef use shredded cooked chicken or even ground turkey For a vegetarian meal fill with black beans rice corn and diced bell peppers You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or use a dairyfree cheese blend
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burritos piping hot with traditional sides like Spanish rice guacamole or tortilla chips For bonus flavor squeeze a little fresh lime over the top or add sliced jalapenos at the table
A Little History
Wet burritos come from the American Southwest evolving from classic Mexican burritos Enchiladas and burritos merge here so you get the extravagance of sauced and baked enchiladas with the heartiness of giant flour tortillas I love knowing every time I make these I am passing along food traditions that comfort and bring people together
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of sauce is used for wet burritos?
They are smothered in a red enchilada-style sauce, adding rich flavor and a delicious, saucy texture.
- → Can I make them spicy?
Absolutely. Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef filling for an extra spicy kick.
- → Which cheese works best for topping?
Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all melt beautifully and add great flavor.
- → How should wet burritos be reheated?
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add extra sauce or cheese if desired.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the burritos, then bake with sauce and cheese right before serving.
- → Are there vegetarian options?
Swap the beef for black beans, rice, corn, and bell peppers for a satisfying meatless version.