Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe: Crispy and Flavorful Mexican Delight
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Mexican dish perfect for any meal. This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious option. Seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tortillas create an irresistible combination the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease. Stir in garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and salt, mixing well. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
For more flavorful beef dishes, check out Cracker Barrel Meatloaf.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
Lay out the flour tortillas and spread a thin layer of refried beans in the center of each, if using. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly to secure the filling.
Step 3: Fry Until Crispy
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chimichangas seam-side down in the oil and fry for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Let the chimichangas rest for a minute before serving. Pair them with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
For another delicious Mexican-inspired dish, try Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.
Tips for the Best Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Use fresh tortillas – Soft tortillas are easier to roll and won’t crack while frying.
- Drain excess grease – This prevents the chimichangas from becoming soggy.
- Don’t overfill – Overstuffing makes rolling difficult and may cause leaks while frying.
- Secure with toothpicks – If your chimichangas tend to open up, use toothpicks to hold them in place while frying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are an easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality Mexican dish at home. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Plus, they can be baked or air-fried for a healthier alternative.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare the beef filling up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge.
- Storage: Keep leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or air-fry at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze assembled, uncooked chimichangas in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas with classic Mexican sides like rice, black beans, or a fresh avocado salad. They also pair perfectly with a drizzle of queso or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Conclusion
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas bring together crispy tortillas, seasoned beef, and melted cheese in a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they’re sure to be a hit. Try this simple, homemade version today for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and crunch!
