If you’re searching for a mouthwatering, satisfying meal that brings together bold flavors and delightful textures, this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe is your new go-to. Crispy on the outside, bursting with savory seasoned ground beef and gooey melted cheese on the inside, these golden delights make every bite an absolute celebration. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends, the irresistible combo of spices, tender beef, and rich cheese wrapped in warm flour tortillas will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe is wonderfully simple, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish so memorable.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base delivers savory richness and a satisfying bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Adds creamy, melty goodness that ties the filling together.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Brings natural sweetness and a tender crunch when cooked down.
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies: Introduces a mild kick and vibrant color.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Deepens the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Infuses the filling with a smoky, spicy essence.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Adds an earthy, slightly nutty undertone that’s classic in Mexican cooking.
- 8 flour tortillas: Soft, pliable wraps that hold everything together while getting crispy when fried.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for creating that golden, crunchy exterior.
- Sour cream and salsa for serving: Provide cool tang and fresh zest as perfect accompaniments.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly. This step is all about developing rich, savory flavor and creating a hearty base for your chimichangas.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices
Once your beef has browned, toss in the diced onions and green chilies along with garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin. Cook everything together until the onions become soft and fragrant. These ingredients awaken the filling with layers of aroma and a well-rounded depth of taste.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in your shredded cheese. Let it melt fully so it blends beautifully with the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring every bite is luscious and cheesy.
Step 4: Assemble the Chimichangas
Lay each flour tortilla flat and spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese filling into the center. Fold in the sides and roll them up tightly, making sure they’re sealed well to keep the filling inside during frying.
Step 5: Fry the Chimichangas
Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet and heat over medium. Carefully place each chimichanga seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry until each side turns a gorgeous golden brown and crispy, usually 3 to 4 minutes per side. This cooking method ensures a crunchy exterior that’s utterly addictive.
Step 6: Serve
Drain the freshly fried chimichangas on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve them piping hot with cool sour cream and vibrant salsa on the side to create the perfect balance of temperature and flavor with each bite.
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or green onions on top to add a burst of color and freshness. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the rich flavors and a dash of hot sauce will bring a tantalizing heat for those who love extra spice alongside their Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad. These complements add variety to the meal and allow you to customize the plate to your liking while balancing hearty and fresh elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut chimichangas in half diagonally and stack them artfully on a platter for an impressive look. You could also serve them with a trio of dipping sauces—guacamole, salsa verde, and chipotle mayo—to elevate the experience and offer guests multiple flavor options.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover chimichangas, wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate promptly. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for quick and delicious reheated meals.
Freezing
For longer storage, flash freeze the uncooked but assembled chimichangas on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When ready, simply fry directly from frozen for crispy perfection.
Reheating
To reheat, bake leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that wonderful crunch that’s signature to this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Cheddar or Mexican blend cheeses work beautifully, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or even a bit of queso fresco for a unique twist.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes, you can bake the chimichangas instead of frying for a lighter version. Using lean ground beef or substituting with ground turkey also cuts down on fat without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Bell peppers, corn, or diced tomatoes make excellent additions that boost nutrition and add exciting textures to the filling.
What’s the best way to keep chimichangas from falling apart during frying?
Make sure to roll the tortillas tightly and seal the edges securely by folding the sides in before rolling. You can also lightly brush the edges with water or beaten egg to help them stick better.
How spicy is this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe?
The spice level is moderate thanks to the green chilies and chili powder, but you can easily adjust the heat by increasing the chili powder or adding jalapeños for more kick.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and a fiesta of flavors to your table. Once you master the steps, it becomes a reliable favorite for any occasion. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself and your loved ones to homemade chimichangas that are crispy, cheesy, and simply irresistible!
Print
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe offers a crispy, golden exterior filled with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and a flavorful blend of spices and diced vegetables. Perfectly fried to a delightful crunch, these chimichangas are served with sour cream and salsa, making an irresistible Mexican-inspired meal ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
Assembly
- 8 flour tortillas
Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough to deep-fry, about 2-3 cups)
Serving
- Sour cream for serving
- Salsa for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until fully browned, about 7-10 minutes, ensuring no pink remains.
- Add Vegetables & Spices: Stir in the diced onion, green chilies, garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin. Cook the mixture for another 4-5 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant.
- Melt the Cheese: Add the shredded cheese to the beef mixture and stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and combines evenly with the beef blend.
- Assemble the Chimichangas: Lay out each flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon an equal portion of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each tortilla. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly to form burrito-shaped chimichangas.
- Fry the Chimichangas: In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering and about 350°F if using a thermometer. Carefully place each chimichanga seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn carefully to avoid oil splatter.
- Serve: Remove the fried chimichangas and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with sour cream and salsa on the side for dipping.
Notes
- You can use shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for best results.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent soggy chimichangas.
- Customize the filling by adding beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Leftover chimichangas can be reheated in an oven for best crispiness.
- Be cautious during frying to avoid oil splashes; use long tongs and fry in batches.
