Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas offer a savory and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Filled with seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden tortilla, this classic Mexican dish is simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether served with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole, these chimichangas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients to make six delicious chimichangas:

  • 1 pound ground beef: A key component that brings the savory filling.
  • 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory element.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor typical in Mexican cuisine.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides mild heat and a smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a slight sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully inside the chimichangas, offering creamy richness.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich beef and cheese filling.
  • 6 large flour tortillas: The vehicle for all the tasty ingredients, which crisps up beautifully when fried.
  • Vegetable oil, for frying: Needed to fry the tortillas to a crispy, golden-brown finish.
  • Optional toppings: Sour cream, salsa, guacamole for serving and extra flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by preparing the beef filling. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat evenly until fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take another 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture

After the onion and garlic have softened, season the beef mixture by adding the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine the seasonings evenly. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Once the beef is well-seasoned, remove the skillet from the heat.

Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture into the center of each tortilla. Top the beef with a sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro.

Step 5: Fold the Chimichangas

To fold the chimichangas, start by folding in the sides of the tortilla over the filling. Then, fold the bottom edge up and roll the tortilla tightly to enclose the filling. Make sure the seam is secured so the chimichanga holds its shape.

Step 6: Fry the Chimichangas

In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam side down in the skillet. Fry the chimichangas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently as they fry.

Step 7: Bake the Chimichangas

After frying, transfer the chimichangas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes. This step ensures that the cheese inside melts completely and the filling is heated through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the chimichangas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole, to complement the crispy exterior and flavorful filling.

Serving & Storage

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these beef and cheese chimichangas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a full meal. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a corn salad for a lighter accompaniment. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle some queso sauce or salsa verde over the top before serving.

Storage:

If you have any leftovers, allow the chimichangas to cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake the chimichangas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispy texture.

Freezing Instructions:

Chimichangas can be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, wrap each chimichanga individually in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat the chimichangas in the oven directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Variations

Chicken Chimichangas:

Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for a lighter version of this dish. The seasoning blend can remain the same, and you can also add ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Vegetarian Chimichangas:

For a vegetarian alternative, replace the beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers. You can still use the same cheese and seasonings, or even add some cooked quinoa or rice to bulk up the filling.

Spicy Chimichangas:

If you love a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier kick. Top with pickled jalapeños or drizzle with sriracha for an extra burst of heat.

FAQ

Can I make these chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the chimichangas, simply warm the filling, assemble the chimichangas, and proceed with frying and baking.

Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying them?

Absolutely! For a healthier option, skip the frying step and bake the chimichangas directly in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Brush them with a little oil before baking to help them brown.

What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?

Besides cheddar cheese, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend. Each will give the chimichangas a slightly different flavor and meltiness.

Conclusion

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines the best of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. The crispy, golden tortilla gives way to a rich and savory filling of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and fresh cilantro, creating a perfect bite every time. Whether you’re serving these chimichangas for a family dinner, a party, or just a casual meal at home, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. The ease of preparation and endless customization options make this recipe a staple for anyone who loves bold flavors and crispy textures. Enjoy these chimichangas hot with your favorite toppings and sides, and savor the delicious blend of spices and textures in every bite!

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Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas


  • Author: Isabella Roberts
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Description

A delicious and savory Mexican dish filled with seasoned beef and melted cheese, wrapped in a crispy tortilla.


Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

6 large flour tortillas

Vegetable oil, for frying

Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole


Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is soft.
  2. Add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine and let it cook for another few minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla, then top with shredded cheddar cheese and cilantro.
  4. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold the bottom over and roll up tightly to form a chimichanga.
  5. In a separate skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chimichangas seam side down in the hot oil and cook until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  6. Transfer the chimichangas to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes to ensure the filling is heated through.
  7. Serve the chimichangas hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Cuisine: American

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