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Delicious beef and cheese chimichangas served on a plate with salsa

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Delicious and satisfying chimichangas filled with savory beef, cheese, and refried beans, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
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.