Here’s a tasty and satisfying recipe for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas—crispy, golden-brown tortillas filled with seasoned beef and melted cheese, perfect for a delicious dinner or snack!
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Ingredients (Makes 4-6 chimichangas)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 4-6 flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Prepare the beef filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: Stir in refried beans and fresh cilantro for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Assemble the chimichangas:
- Warm the flour tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them more pliable.
- Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the beef mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly to form a burrito-like shape, making sure the ends are sealed.
- Fry the chimichangas:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge at least half of the chimichanga when it’s in the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your pan.
- Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the chimichangas hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or diced tomatoes.
Optional Variations:
- Add veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy version: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
- Baked version: If you prefer to bake instead of fry, brush the chimichangas with a little oil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are crunchy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside—perfect for a fun and satisfying meal!