Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

This recipe makes restaurant-quality chimichangas in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
  • ¼ cup water or beef broth
  • ½ cup salsa (or diced tomatoes)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Chimichangas:

  • 6 large flour tortillas
  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted (if baking)

Optional Toppings:

  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa or pico de gallo
  • Chopped cilantro

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Beef Filling

  • In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned.
  • Drain excess fat, then stir in garlic, taco seasoning, water, and salsa.
  • Simmer for 5 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat.
  • Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, mixing until melted.

2. Assemble the Chimichangas

  • Place a scoop of beef filling in the center of each tortilla.
  • Fold in the sides, then roll tightly into a burrito shape.
  • Secure with toothpicks if needed.

3. Fry or Bake the Chimichangas

To Fry (Traditional Method):

  • Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  • Carefully place chimichangas seam-side down and fry 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Drain on paper towels and serve hot!

To Bake (Healthier Option):

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Brush chimichangas with melted butter and place on a baking sheet.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Remove toothpicks and top with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
  • Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad!

Notes

Tips for the Best Chimichangas

✅ Use fresh tortillas – Warm them slightly to prevent cracking.
✅ Don’t overfill – Too much filling makes them hard to roll and fry.
✅ Seal properly – Fold the tortillas tightly so they stay closed.
✅ Use a thermometer – Keep oil at 350°F for perfect crispiness.
✅ For extra crunch – Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top after baking!

  • Author: niold.com