Why Make This Recipe
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious way to satisfy your craving for savory flavors. They are crispy on the outside and filled with a tasty mixture of beef, cheese, and beans. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, parties, or a fun weekend meal. Plus, they can be baked for a healthier option or fried for a crispier treat.
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:
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 any excess grease. Stir in the garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is well mixed.
Assemble the chimichangas: Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Then, add a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
Cook the chimichangas: For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush them lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until they are golden and crispy. For a crispier outcome, heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and crisp.
Serve: Remove the chimichangas from heat and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. Feel free to add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa for extra flavor!
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Serve your chimichangas hot. Place them on a plate and add your favorite toppings. You can combine them with rice and beans as a side dish for a complete meal.
How to Store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
If you have leftovers, let the chimichangas cool down completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or skillet until warmed through.
Tips to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Make sure to drain the grease from the beef to prevent sogginess.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas to ensure they seal properly.
- For extra flavor, customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, like jalapeños or corn.
Variation
You can customize the filling by adding black beans, corn, or diced peppers. For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
FAQs
Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and roll them up ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and cook them when ready to serve.Are chimichangas healthy?
While they’re delicious, chimichangas can be high in calories, especially if fried. Baking them is a healthier option.Can I freeze chimichangas?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven when ready to eat.