Description
This Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe features crispy, golden-brown fried tortillas stuffed with a savory ground beef and melted cheddar cheese mixture. Perfect for a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal, these chimichangas are quick to prepare and cook, making them an ideal option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
Assembly and Frying
- 6-8 large flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Garlic, Seasoning and Chilies: Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, then add the water and diced green chilies if using. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely into the beef mixture, creating a creamy filling.
- Assemble Chimichangas: Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 1/3 cup of the beef and cheese mixture into the center of each tortilla.
- Fold and Roll: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly into a burrito shape to enclose the filling securely.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat it over medium heat until shimmering and hot.
- Fry Chimichangas: Carefully place each chimichanga seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Using tongs, remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve the chimichangas warm with your favorite toppings such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with a Mexican cheese blend for a more authentic flavor.
- Adjust the amount of oil used for frying to ensure the chimichangas don’t absorb too much grease.
- For a spicier option, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Leftover chimichangas can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Use fresh tortillas for best folding and frying results.
