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Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe
Why Make This Recipe
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious way to enjoy a classic Mexican-inspired meal. They are crispy on the outside and filled with a hearty mixture of beef, cheese, and beans. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or simply when you crave something comforting and tasty. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings!
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:
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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 the excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is well combined.
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Assemble the Chimichangas: Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Next, add a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly like a burrito.
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Cook the Chimichangas:
- Oven Method (Healthier): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until they are golden and crispy.
- Skillet Method (Crispier): 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.
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Serve: Remove the chimichangas from heat and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. You can add toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if you like.
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are best served hot and fresh. You can slice them in half to reveal the cheesy filling. Offer a variety of toppings on the side, such as sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and salsa, allowing everyone to customize their plate as they wish.
How to Store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
If you have leftover chimichangas, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before cooking. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Don’t overfill the tortillas; otherwise, they will burst while cooking.
- If you want extra crunch, try frying them in oil instead of baking.
- Experiment with different types of cheeses for added flavor.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, you can also make a vegetarian version by using black beans, green peppers, and corn instead of ground beef.
FAQs
1. Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas in advance. Refrigerate them until you are ready to cook.
2. How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat chimichangas, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the texture may not be as crispy.
3. What can I serve with chimichangas?
Chimichangas pair well with sides like Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. They also go great with dips like salsa and guacamole.
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Crispy on the outside and filled with a hearty mixture of beef, cheese, and beans, these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade) 1 oz
- ½ cup salsa
For Assembly
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)
Instructions
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 the excess grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is well combined.
Assemble the Chimichangas
- Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
- Add a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly like a burrito.
Cook the Chimichangas
- Oven Method (Healthier): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the 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 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.
- Add toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.
Notes
Don’t overfill the tortillas; otherwise, they will burst while cooking. For extra crunch, try frying them in oil instead of baking. Experiment with different types of cheeses for added flavor. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition, or make a vegetarian version using black beans, green peppers, and corn instead of ground beef.
