Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

why make this recipe

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious and fun way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish. These crispy, golden wraps filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese are perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, making chimichangas at home allows you to customize the fillings and serve them just the way you like! Whether you bake or fry them, these chimichangas are sure to impress.

how to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade)
• ½ cup salsa
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

Directions:

1. Cook the beef filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until well combined.

2. Assemble the chimichangas: Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.

3. Cook the chimichangas:

   • Oven method (healthier): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
   • Skillet method (crispier): Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place chimichangas seam-side down and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

4. Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Add toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.

how to serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas hot, right from the oven or skillet. Pair them with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and fresh salsa. You can also serve them alongside a simple salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal.

how to store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

To store leftover chimichangas, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply bake in the oven or warm them up in a skillet until heated through.

tips to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

• Make sure to drain the grease from the cooked beef to avoid soggy chimichangas.
• For extra flavor, add chopped peppers or corn to the beef mixture.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with seasoned black beans or grilled vegetables.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavors.

variation

You can easily switch up the fillings in your chimichangas. Try using shredded chicken, pulled pork, or a mix of vegetables for a different twist. You can also adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or using spicy salsa.

FAQs

1. Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and cook them when you’re ready to eat.

2. Are chimichangas healthy?
Chimichangas can be higher in calories due to frying, but you can make a healthier version by baking them instead. Use whole grain tortillas and add more vegetables for a nutritious meal.

3. How do I know when chimichangas are done?
Chimichangas are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. If baking, ensure they reach this color after 18–20 minutes in the oven. If frying, they should be golden on both sides after several minutes.