Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

If you’re looking for a meal that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with savory beef flavor, then beef and cheese chimichangas are about to become your new go-to dish! These golden, deep-fried delights are everything you crave in a Tex-Mex meal—crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so you can whip up a batch for a family dinner or share them at your next party. Trust me, they’re always a hit!

The best part? You can customize your chimichangas to your heart’s desire—add in your favorite spices, vegetables, or even a little extra cheese. Whether you like them smothered in salsa or served with a dollop of sour cream, these chimichangas are perfect for dipping and devouring. Get ready for a bite of heaven!

Why You’ll Love Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Crispy & Golden

There’s nothing like the irresistible crunch of a perfectly fried chimichanga. The crispy exterior holds all that cheesy goodness inside, making each bite a delightful experience.

Easy to Make

These chimichangas are surprisingly simple! With a few key ingredients and minimal steps, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering dish in no time. Plus, you don’t need any special equipment—just a frying pan and some basic kitchen tools.

Versatile

Feel free to make these your own! You can add extra ingredients like jalapeños, black beans, or even some guacamole to personalize the flavor to your taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a weekend treat, beef and cheese chimichangas are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re just as good on their own as they are with a side of rice or Mexican street corn.

Make Ahead & Freezer Friendly

You can make these in advance and freeze them for a quick and easy meal later. Just fry them, let them cool, wrap them up, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat them up in the oven for that crispy perfection.

Ingredients

For the Chimichangas:

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning (or your own blend of spices)
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Refried beans (optional, for an extra creamy filling)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
• Flour tortillas (large size)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Toppings and Serving:

• Sour cream
• Salsa or Guacamole
• Shredded lettuce
• Chopped tomatoes
• Chopped cilantro

Instructions

Making beef and cheese chimichangas is easier than you think, and the results are so worth it. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add the Flavors

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning (or your own spice blend) and stir to coat the beef evenly. If you’re using refried beans, stir them in now for a creamy, flavorful filling. Let everything cook together for a few more minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas

Now it’s time to put it all together! Lay your flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then top with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly to form a burrito shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Step 4: Fry the Chimichangas

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping in a small piece of tortilla to see if it sizzles), carefully place the chimichangas seam side down in the skillet. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn them carefully to avoid splattering oil.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the chimichangas are crispy and golden, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Step 6: Top and Enjoy

Serve your beef and cheese chimichangas with your favorite toppings! Add a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of salsa or guacamole, and a sprinkle of chopped lettuce and tomatoes. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 720mg
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 22g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

How to Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

These chimichangas are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your meal:

Fresh Guacamole

Serve your chimichangas with a side of creamy guacamole. The cool, refreshing flavor pairs beautifully with the crispy, savory chimichangas.

Mexican Rice

A side of Mexican rice adds a hearty element to the meal and balances out the richness of the chimichangas.

Refried Beans

If you haven’t already mixed in some refried beans, serving them as a side is a great idea. Their creamy texture complements the crispy chimichangas perfectly.

Side Salad

Top off your chimichangas with a fresh, light salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Additional Tips

Keep the Oil Hot

Make sure your oil is hot enough for frying. If it’s too cool, the chimichangas will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they might burn on the outside before cooking through.

Try Oven Baking

If you want a lighter option, you can bake the chimichangas instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the chimichangas with a little oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Add Extra Heat

For a spicier version, add some jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the beef mixture before rolling up the chimichangas. You can also serve with spicy salsa or salsa verde.

Freeze for Later

If you want to make a big batch, you can freeze the chimichangas before frying them. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two of cooking time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe and is a great way to lighten things up while still keeping the flavors delicious.

Q2: Can I make these chimichangas in advance?

A2: Yes! You can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. You can also freeze them for up to a month—just fry them straight from the freezer!

Q3: Can I make these chimichangas without frying them?

A3: Yes, you can bake them instead! Brush with a little oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q4: How can I make these vegetarian?

A4: You can easily make these chimichangas vegetarian by swapping out the beef for black beans, refried beans, or even sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.

Q5: Can I freeze leftover chimichangas?

A5: Yes! To freeze leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them in foil or plastic wrap. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Q6: What type of tortillas work best for chimichangas?

A6: Flour tortillas work best because they hold up well during frying and provide that perfect chewy texture. Make sure to use large-sized tortillas for easy folding.

Q7: Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

A7: Yes! If you have a deep fryer, it’s an easy way to get even, crispy chimichangas. Just make sure the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C).

Q8: How do I prevent chimichangas from opening while frying?

A8: Make sure to seal the edges of the chimichangas tightly before frying. You can also use a toothpick to secure the seams, then remove it after frying.

Q9: Can

I make chimichangas without cheese? A9: Of course! If you prefer a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese and add extra beef or other ingredients like beans or vegetables.

Q10: What kind of salsa is best for serving with chimichangas?

A10: You can serve your chimichangas with any salsa you like! Tomato-based salsa adds a fresh, tangy flavor, while salsa verde offers a nice kick. For extra heat, try a spicy chipotle salsa.

Conclusion

Beef and cheese chimichangas are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can create this Tex-Mex favorite at home for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just because, these chimichangas are sure to be a hit every time. Enjoy them hot, fresh, and with all your favorite toppings!

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