If there’s one dish that’s become a legend in Michigan, it’s the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito. This hearty, saucy creation has been delighting diners for decades, and it’s no wonder why—it’s the ultimate comfort food. Packed with seasoned meat, smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce, and topped with melted cheese, this burrito is a true crowd-pleaser.
Beltline Bar Wet Burrito Recipe
Recreate the iconic Beltline Bar Wet Burrito at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. We’ve broken it down into clear steps, ensuring you can enjoy the same hearty, saucy goodness that diners in Michigan have loved for decades.
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Burrito Assembly
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch)
- 2 cups refried beans (canned or homemade, warmed)
- 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
For the Wet Sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) enchilada sauce (red or green, your choice)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings
- 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese (or a cheese mix of your choice)
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Cook the Meat Filling
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and ground pork over medium heat, breaking them into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once the meat is about halfway cooked, stir in the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Season the meat mixture with cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the meat is fully cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Wet Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the enchilada sauce and tomato sauce. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Keep this sauce on hand to pour over the burritos later.
3. Assemble the Burritos
Heat the flour tortillas slightly to make them pliable, either in a microwave or on a dry skillet. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Add a generous portion of the meat filling and some shredded lettuce. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward and roll it tightly into a burrito shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Add the “Wet” Component
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in a large baking dish. Pour the warmed wet sauce generously over the burritos, ensuring each one is fully covered. Sprinkle the shredded Colby-Jack cheese evenly on top.
5. Bake and Serve
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and carefully plate each burrito.
6. Garnish and Enjoy
Top each burrito with chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to customize with sour cream or guacamole. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Beltline Bar Wet Burrito masterpiece!
Quick Reference Table
| Component | Ingredient/Step |
|---|---|
| Meat Filling | Ground beef, pork, spices, onion, garlic |
| Wet Sauce | Enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, spices |
| Assembly | Tortillas, refried beans, lettuce, meat filling |
| Toppings | Cheese, tomatoes, olives, cilantro |
Ingredients
To recreate the iconic and hearty Beltline Bar Wet Burrito at home, we need a thoughtfully selected list of ingredients for the filling, the sauce, and the toppings. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
For The Filling
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups refried beans
For The Sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (mild or medium based on spice preference)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
For The Toppings
- 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup chopped lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving
Tools And Equipment
To recreate the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito in all its saucy, cheesy glory, having the right tools and equipment is just as important as the ingredients. Here’s what we’ll need to make the process seamless:
List of Essential Tools
- Large skillet or sauté pan: For browning and seasoning the meat filling.
- Medium saucepan: To prepare the rich wet burrito sauce.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: Perfect for stirring the filling, sauce, or refried beans without scratching cookware.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accurately measuring spices, sauces, and other ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping onions, garlic, tomatoes, cilantro, and other fresh toppings.
- Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended): To assemble and bake the burritos with the sauce.
- Tongs or sturdy spatula: For handling and assembling the burritos without tearing the tortillas.
- Box grater or food processor: For shredding the cheese.
- Aluminum foil: To cover the burritos while baking to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
- Serving plates: To showcase the finished wet burritos beautifully.
- Mixing bowls (small to medium): For prepping toppings or mixing ingredients as required.
Tool-Specific Insights
Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
We recommend using a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan since they evenly distribute heat and prevent sticking while cooking the meat filling.
Baking Dish
Choose a dish with deep sides (at least 2 inches) to hold the burritos and sauce securely without overflow.
Aluminum Foil
Wrapping the burritos or covering the dish with foil ensures the cheese melts evenly without over-browning.
Suggested Tools Summary in Markdown Table
| Tool | Purpose | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Browning and seasoning meat | Non-stick or cast iron is ideal |
| Medium Saucepan | Cooking the wet sauce | Stainless steel for even heat |
| Baking Dish (9×13-inch) | Baking the assembled burritos | Use a dish with deep sides |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring filling, beans, or sauce | Heat-resistant tools |
| Box Grater | Shredding cheese | Standard or use a food processor |
| Aluminum Foil | Covering burritos in the oven | Prevents over-browning |
| Cutting Board and Knife | Chopping vegetables and toppings | Use a sharp, sturdy knife |
| Mixing Bowls | Prepping ingredients and toppings | Various sizes for convenience |
With these tools on hand, we ensure that every step—from sautéing the filling to serving the dish—will be smooth, effective, and enjoyable.
Directions
Let’s bring the magic of the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito into our kitchen with these easy-to-follow directions. Follow along step by step as we prepare each layer of this iconic Michigan dish.
Prep
- Dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Gather and measure out all your ingredients for the filling, sauce, and toppings for a smooth process.
Cook The Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned. Drain the fat if necessary.
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in a 1-ounce packet of taco seasoning and ½ cup of water, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Add ½ cup of refried beans to the skillet. Stir the mixture until fully blended and heated through. Remove from heat.
Make The Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 can (10 ounces) of enchilada sauce, 1 can (8 ounces) of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer. Reduce to low heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Assemble The Burrito
- Lay a large flour tortilla flat. Place approximately ½ cup of filling in the center.
- Add your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, or cilantro inside the tortilla if desired.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it tightly from one end to form a burrito.
- Repeat with the remaining filling and tortillas. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Add The Sauce And Bake
- Pour the warm sauce over the folded burritos, making sure each is generously covered. Spread the sauce evenly with a spoon if needed.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese over the top, creating a melted, bubbly layer.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and golden.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito, presentation and accompaniments play a crucial role in enhancing the overall meal experience. Here are a few ideas to make this dish a show-stopper on your table:
Suggested Sides and Pairings
Pairing the wet burrito with complementary sides can round out the meal and bring out its bold flavors. Consider these options:
- Mexican Rice: Serve alongside a fluffy bed of Mexican rice seasoned with tomato, cumin, and garlic.
- Refried Beans: A small portion of creamy refried beans adds extra heartiness to the plate.
- Tortilla Chips and Salsa: A crunchy contrast to the saucy burrito, freshly made salsa or guacamole is a must.
- Grilled Corn: Lightly charred corn with lime and cotija cheese pairs beautifully with the burrito’s rich flavors.
Optimal Plating
Visual appeal can take your Beltline Bar Wet Burrito to the next level. Here’s how we like to plate it:
- Place the burrito on a wide, flat plate to highlight its generous size.
- Drizzle the remaining wet sauce liberally over the burrito for a moist, enticing look.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro for a vibrant pop of color.
- Add a dollop of sour cream on top or to the side as a cooling garnish.
Serving Tips
For an authentic and memorable dining experience, keep the following tips in mind:
- Serve the burrito immediately after baking, ensuring the sauce and cheese remain hot and melted.
- Provide extra bowls of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and olives so everyone can personalize their burrito.
- Offer a variety of hot sauces for heat enthusiasts to spice things up.
Beverage Pairings
Enhance the flavors of the wet burrito with the right drink choices. Some excellent options include:
- Classic Margarita: The tangy, citrusy notes compliment the savory richness of the dish.
- Mexican Beer: A chilled cerveza like Corona or Modelo pairs perfectly with the bold spices.
- Horchata: For a non-alcoholic option, the creamy cinnamon sweetness balances the burrito’s flavors.
Table Presentation
If you’re serving the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito for a gathering, a small buffet set-up works wonders. Here’s a quick idea:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Dish | Keep the freshly baked burritos in a warm baking dish. |
| Sauce Station | Include extra wet sauce in a serving bowl with a ladle for those who want more. |
| DIY Topping Bar | Arrange small bowls of shredded lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and jalapeños. |
| Side Dishes | Serve rice, beans, chips, and salsa in individual serving platters to complete the meal. |
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
To make the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito even more convenient for busy days or gatherings, we can plan ahead and store leftovers properly. With the below tips, we ensure the dish’s flavors stay intact without compromising quality.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepping the Filling and Sauce: Both the meat filling and the wet sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, reheat the filling and sauce over low heat to return them to their original consistency.
- Assemble in Advance:
- Roll the burritos with the prepared filling but hold off on adding the wet sauce or cheese topping.
- Place the burritos in a greased baking dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to one day. Just before serving, pour the wet sauce over the burritos, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake as instructed.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
To keep any extra wet burritos flavorful and safe to eat, follow these steps for storage:
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Wrap individual burritos tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Keep in an airtight container to prevent drying. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Assemble and freeze burritos without sauce and cheese. Wrap each burrito in foil, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and label with the date. |
Pro Tip: To freeze with sauce, consider freezing the sauce separately in a small freezer-safe container to prevent the burritos from becoming soggy during thawing.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat using the following methods based on storage:
- Oven (Preferred Method): Preheat to 350°F. Place leftover burritos in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For frozen burritos, bake for 30-35 minutes, adding sauce and cheese during the last 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a burrito on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add sauce and cheese, then heat for 30-second intervals until warm.
Helpful Suggestions
- Always cool burritos to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
- If preparing for a crowd, label containers with “filling,” “sauce,” or “assembled burritos” for easy identification.
- Store toppings like shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes separately to preserve their freshness.
Conclusion
The Beltline Bar Wet Burrito is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting classic that brings bold flavors and a sense of nostalgia to the table. With the right ingredients, tools, and a little preparation, we can easily recreate this iconic dish in our own kitchens. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering, this recipe ensures a satisfying experience every time. Let’s embrace the joy of making and sharing this Michigan favorite, one saucy, cheesy bite at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito?
The Beltline Bar Wet Burrito is a famous dish from Michigan, featuring a flour tortilla filled with seasoned meat and refried beans, covered in a rich enchilada-style sauce, and topped with melted cheese. It’s a comforting, hearty meal loved for decades.
What are the key ingredients for the wet burrito?
The key ingredients are ground beef or turkey, diced onion, garlic, taco seasoning, refried beans, enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and large flour tortillas. Optional toppings include lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro.
How do I make the sauce for the wet burrito?
The sauce is made by simmering enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Combine the ingredients in a saucepan and cook until the flavors are fully blended.
What equipment do I need to make this dish?
You’ll need a large skillet for cooking the meat, a medium saucepan for the sauce, and a deep-sided baking dish for assembling the burritos. Heat-resistant utensils and non-stick or cast iron pans are recommended.
Can I prepare the burritos in advance?
Yes! Prepare the filling and sauce up to two days in advance. You can also assemble the burritos without the sauce and cheese, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat refrigerated burritos in the oven at 350°F or microwave. For frozen burritos, thaw first before reheating.
What are suggested sides for the wet burrito?
Great sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, tortilla chips with salsa, and grilled corn. These sides complement the burrito perfectly.
What are some drink pairings for this dish?
Classic margaritas, Mexican beer, or horchata pair wonderfully with the Beltline Bar Wet Burrito, enhancing the meal’s flavor and experience.
How can I elevate the burrito’s presentation?
Drizzle extra sauce over the burrito, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with a dollop of sour cream. A DIY topping bar with various sauces and garnishes is also a fun way to serve.
Can this recipe serve a crowd?
Yes! For gatherings, try a buffet setup with a sauce station and topping bar. Assemble multiple burritos in advance and bake them all at once for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.