Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Description

Crispy, golden-brown chimichangas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and flavorful spices make for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these chimichangas are baked (or fried) to perfection and served with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)

• ½ cup (120ml) water

• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup (120g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• ½ cup (120g) refried beans (optional)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

• 1 small can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch)

• 2 tbsp melted butter or oil (for brushing)

For Serving (Optional):

• Sour cream

• Guacamole

• Salsa

• Shredded lettuce

• Diced tomatoes

• Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces. Remove from heat.

4. Mix in the refried beans (if using), green chilies, cilantro, and half of the shredded cheeses. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.

2. Warm the tortillas slightly (about 10 seconds in the microwave) to make them pliable.

3. Spoon about ½ cup of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla.

4. Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to form a burrito shape. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

Step 3: Cook the Chimichangas

Baked Method (Healthier):

1. Place chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. Brush lightly with melted butter or oil.

3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Fried Method (Traditional):

1. Heat 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry chimichangas in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

3. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove toothpicks (if used) and sprinkle with remaining cheese while hot.

2. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and other desired toppings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Baked)

Note: Nutrition may vary based on toppings and cooking method.

Tips & Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with black beans and sautéed veggies.

• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble uncooked chimichangas, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes.

Conclusion

These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a crowd-pleaser—crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether baked or fried, they’re a fantastic meal for any occasion. Enjoy with your favorite toppings and sides!