Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a fantastic dish that packs a lot of flavor into a crispy tortilla. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these chimichangas are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cheese, and spices, all wrapped up in a tortilla and baked or fried to golden perfection. The best part? They can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them an adaptable choice for any palate. You may also find Beef And Cheese Chimichangas 2 useful.

Why cook this at home

Cooking Beef and Cheese Chimichangas at home allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor without the hefty price tag. This dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy evenings. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to feed the whole family without breaking the bank. These chimichangas can easily become a highlight of your week as they are satisfying and versatile. You may also find Beef And Cheese Chimichangas useful.

Steps at a glance

• Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet.
• Mix in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa.
• Spread refried beans on tortillas.
• Fill tortillas with the beef mixture and cheese.
• Cook the chimichangas by baking or frying until crispy.
• Let cool slightly before serving with toppings.

Key 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)
• 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

All the ingredients provide a hearty base for the chimichangas. If you want to make it lighter, consider using reduced-fat cheese or swapping out the beef for lean turkey.

How to prepare it

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
2. Drain excess grease, then stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until well combined.
3. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
4. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.
5. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for healthier cooking. Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet, brush lightly with vegetable oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, for a crispier texture, heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chimichangas seam-side down for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

What to serve it with

Serving Beef and Cheese Chimichangas can be as fun as cooking them. Pair them with a zesty side of guacamole or fresh salsa for dipping. Sour cream adds a nice creamy texture, while shredded lettuce provides a nice crunch. If you want to boost the meal, consider adding Mexican rice or a side of black beans.

How to store and freeze

To store leftover chimichangas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain that crispy texture.

Tips for success

• If you’re short on time, use a store-bought taco seasoning for convenience.
• Consider adding bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Make sure not to overfill the tortillas to prevent them from bursting while cooking.
• For a healthier option, bake instead of frying them, or use less oil when frying.
• Keep an eye on the chimichangas while they cook, as cooking times can vary depending on your equipment.

Creative twists

You can easily customize Beef and Cheese Chimichangas by swapping out types of cheese, using different proteins like shredded chicken or beef sausage, or adding vegetables for a healthier touch. Try a spicy twist by including jalapeños or a creamy jalapeño sauce to elevate the flavor profile.

Your questions answered

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and can provide a lighter option while still being delicious.

How long will the chimichangas take to bake?

Bake the chimichangas for about 18-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) or until golden brown and crispy.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. This makes assembling the chimichangas quicker.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The best way to reheat chimichangas is to place them back in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until heated through and crispy, ensuring they maintain their texture.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Yes, you can use black beans, beans, or even veggies like mushrooms and zucchini in place of the beef for a vegetarian alternative.

Creating Beef and Cheese Chimichangas at home can be both fun and satisfying. With these tips and steps, you’ll be able to make a dish that will surely impress your family or friends. Feel free to experiment with variations and find your favorite combinations!

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

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These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a flavorful dish packed into a crispy tortilla, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)
• 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
2. Drain excess grease, then stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until well combined.
3. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
4. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.
5. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for healthier cooking. Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet, brush lightly with vegetable oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
7. Alternatively, for a crispier texture, heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chimichangas seam-side down for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

Consider adding bell peppers or corn for extra flavor. Bake instead of frying for a healthier option.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 55mg