Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe
These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are crispy, flavorful rolled tortillas filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheese. Perfect for a satisfying Mexican-inspired meal, they can be baked for a healthier option or pan-fried for extra crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 chimichangas 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
Filling Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade)
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
Additional Ingredients
- 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for brushing and frying
Instructions
- Cook the beef filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease from the pan. Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa, then simmer the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Assemble the chimichangas: Lay out each tortilla and spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center. Add a generous scoop of the beef mixture over the beans, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly like a burrito to enclose the filling.
- Cook the chimichangas: Oven method (healthier): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with vegetable oil. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Skillet method (crispier): Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chimichangas seam-side down for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crisp.
- Serve: Remove the chimichangas from the heat and let them rest for 2 minutes. Serve with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or additional salsa, if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier version, opt for baking instead of frying.
- Ensure the chimichangas are rolled tightly to prevent filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Leftover chimichangas can be refrigerated and reheated in an oven for best texture retention.
- Customize toppings to your preference to add freshness and extra flavor.
Keywords: chimichangas, beef chimichangas, Mexican recipe, baked chimichangas, easy Mexican dinner
Find it online: https://kitchenbynora.com/beef-and-cheese-chimichangas-recipe/
