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Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

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Crispy chimichangas filled with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and cheddar cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning or about 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 cup refried beans (canned or homemade)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
  • 6 large flour tortillas, burrito size
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for brushing or frying

Instructions

  1. Prep vegetables and measure ingredients so everything is ready to go.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
  3. Drain excess grease from the skillet. Return the pan to medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Cook and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until flavors meld and the mixture is slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Lay a tortilla flat. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.
  5. Fold the two sides of the tortilla in toward the center, then roll tightly from one end to the other so the seam is on the bottom. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  6. Oven method for a lighter finish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chimichangas seam side down on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each with vegetable oil. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  7. Skillet method for extra crispness: Pour 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil into a skillet and heat over medium. Place chimichangas seam side down and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain briefly.
  8. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or extra salsa as desired.

Notes

Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. For a gluten-free option, swap tortillas for large compliant wraps. To avoid burst seams, do not overfill; keep a clear margin at each edge of the tortilla before rolling.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/beef-and-cheese-chimichangas/