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.