Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Why make this recipe

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious and satisfying meal choice. They offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

How to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

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)

Directions:

1. Cook the beef filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is well combined.

2. Assemble the chimichangas: Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top each with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.

3. Cook the chimichangas: You can choose from two methods:

   • Oven method (healthier): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until they are golden and crispy.
   • Skillet method (crispier): Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

4. Serve: Remove from heat and let the chimichangas rest for 2 minutes before serving. Add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.

How to serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Serve the chimichangas hot, preferably with a variety of toppings. Popular choices include sour cream, guacamole, fresh salsa, or shredded lettuce. Arrange them on a large platter for a beautiful presentation.

How to store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

You can store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Tips to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

• For added flavor, consider using different cheeses or mixing in some chopped peppers or beans in the filling.
• To make a healthier version, you can bake the chimichangas instead of frying.
• Always let the chimichangas rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to avoid burning your mouth.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by using different proteins, such as shredded chicken or turkey. You can also make a vegetarian version by using black beans or sautéed vegetables instead of meat.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze chimichangas?
   Yes, you can freeze unbaked chimichangas. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I make chimichangas in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and cook them when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I serve with chimichangas?
   Chimichangas pair well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve tortilla chips and salsa on the side for extra crunch.

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Delicious and satisfying chimichangas filled with savory beef, cheese, and refried beans, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Filling Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 oz packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
• ½ cup salsa
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)

Assembly Ingredients

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

Method

 

Prepare the Beef Filling

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. Drain any excess grease.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until everything is well combined.

Assemble the Chimichangas

1. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
2. Top each with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.
3. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.

Cook the Chimichangas

1. Choose between oven method or skillet method for cooking.
2. For the oven method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping once, until they are golden and crispy.
3. For the skillet method: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

Serve

1. Remove from heat and let the chimichangas rest for 2 minutes before serving.
2. Add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using different cheeses or mixing in some chopped peppers or beans in the filling. To make a healthier version, you can bake the chimichangas instead of frying. Always let the chimichangas rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to avoid burning your mouth.