Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried making beef and cheese chimichangas at home, you’re seriously missing out! They’re crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. I remember the first time I made them; it was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I was craving something warm and cheesy. I threw together some seasoned beef and melted cheese, wrapped them up in tortillas, and fried them until golden brown. The smell that filled my kitchen was nothing short of heavenly! Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked. These chimichangas are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors, and the joy of making them yourself is unbeatable. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious beef and cheese chimichangas. I promise, the ingredients are simple and easy to find!
- 1 lb ground beef: This will be the hearty base of your filling. Make sure it’s well-seasoned!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that melty goodness, but you can use your favorite cheese!
- 4 large flour tortillas: Go for the big ones so you can pack in all that flavor. They should be soft and pliable.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: This adds a nice kick—adjust to your spice preference!
- 1 teaspoon cumin: It gives a warm, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: A little sweetness and depth of flavor here.
- Salt to taste: Don’t forget this! It really brings all the flavors together.
- Oil for frying: You’ll need enough oil to submerge the chimichangas for that perfect crispy finish. I usually use vegetable or canola oil.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to embark on your chimichanga adventure!
How to Prepare Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s jump into making those mouthwatering beef and cheese chimichangas! It’s easier than you think, and I’m here to guide you through every step.
Cooking the Beef
First things first, heat a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the ground beef. You’ll want to cook it for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once the beef is looking good, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix everything together and let it cook for another minute to really let those spices bloom. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in that glorious shredded cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. Yum!
Assembling the Chimichangas
Now comes the fun part! Take a large flour tortilla and scoop a generous portion of your beef and cheese mixture right into the center. You don’t want to overfill it; about 1/3 cup works perfectly. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, like you’re wrapping a present. To seal the edges, you can use a little water on your fingers to help them stick. This step is crucial to keep that delicious filling from leaking out while frying!
Frying the Chimichangas
Alright, let’s fry these beauties! In a deep pan, heat enough oil over medium heat to submerge the chimichangas—about 2 inches deep should do it. You’ll know it’s hot enough when a small piece of tortilla sizzles when dropped in. Carefully place each chimichanga seam-side down into the oil, frying them in batches if necessary. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Be cautious—hot oil can splatter! Once they’re done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. And just like that, your chimichangas are ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla is simply irresistible.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your favorite spices, veggies, or even beans for variety.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These chimichangas freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch ahead of time for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good chimichanga! They’re a hit with kids and adults alike—perfect for any gathering.
- Dip it Good: Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success
To ensure your beef and cheese chimichangas turn out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, use high-quality ground beef; it makes a huge difference in flavor. I like to go for 80/20 beef for the right balance of juiciness and flavor. When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chimichangas. A good test is to drop in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle immediately! Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to soggy chimichangas. Also, don’t skip on the sealing step—moisten the edges of the tortillas to keep that cheesy goodness inside. Finally, serve these crispy delights with a side of homemade salsa or a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate experience. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious beef and cheese chimichangas ready to go, let’s talk about how to take your meal to the next level! I love serving these crispy delights with a side of fresh salsa. The bright, tangy flavors really complement the richness of the chimichangas. You can use store-bought salsa, but if you have a little time, a homemade pico de gallo is even better!
Don’t forget the sour cream! A dollop on the side adds a cool, creamy contrast that balances out the spices beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some guacamole for that creamy, avocado goodness. And for a refreshing crunch, a simple side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can really round out the meal.
For a fun twist, you could also serve them with a side of Mexican street corn or some refried beans. Trust me, no one will leave the table hungry when you pair these chimichangas with any of these sides! Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in your delicious beef and cheese chimichangas? Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (which is one chimichanga). Keep in mind that actual values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea!
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 15g
These chimichangas are not just tasty but also pack a good amount of protein to keep you satisfied. Enjoy them guilt-free and savor every bite!
FAQ About Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Can I bake these chimichangas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! To bake your beef and cheese chimichangas, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). After assembling them, place them seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray the tops lightly with cooking oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. It’s a healthier option that still delivers on flavor!
What kind of cheese works best?
I love using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that perfect meltiness, but feel free to experiment! Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, or you could even use Mexican blend cheese for a more traditional touch. Just make sure it melts well!
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out while frying?
Sealing the chimichangas properly is key! After you fill and roll them up, use a little water on your fingers to moisten the edges of the tortilla before pressing them together. This helps them stick and keeps all that delicious beef and cheese inside while they fry.
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded beef or pork work wonderfully as alternatives. Just make sure to season them well, just like you would with the ground beef. You can customize the flavors to your liking!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any chimichangas left (which is rare, but it happens!), let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with any leftover beef and cheese chimichangas—though I can’t imagine there being many!—storing them properly is key to keeping that deliciousness intact. First, let them cool down completely to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper if you’re stacking them to avoid sticking.
When it comes to reheating, you’ll want to bring back that crispy, golden texture. The oven is your best friend here! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chimichangas on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy again. You could also use an air fryer if you have one; just pop them in at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes for a quick and crunchy reheat!
Microwaving is an option if you’re in a rush, but beware—it can make the tortillas a bit soggy. If you must, use a paper towel to cover them and zap them for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. But trust me, for that authentic crispiness, the oven or air fryer is the way to go!
Print
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas: 5 Steps to Deliciousness
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Beef and cheese chimichangas are crispy, deep-fried tortillas filled with seasoned beef and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
- Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese.
- Place a portion of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll tightly.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Fry each chimichanga until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Notes
- Serve with salsa or sour cream.
- Can be baked instead of fried for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: beef and cheese chimichangas, chimichangas, beef chimichangas
