Name: Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning mix; 1/2 cup water; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 8 large flour tortillas; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of crispy, cheesy, and savory dishes, these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a must-try. They offer the perfect combination of juicy, seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese wrapped in a crunchy tortilla shell. The best part? You can easily customize the fillings to suit your taste, whether you prefer spicier flavors or milder options. Plus, these chimichangas are quick to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd.

Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1/2 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
8 large flour tortillas
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the onions soften.
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water, then simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
To assemble the chimichangas, lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place a generous scoop of the beef mixture in the center, followed by a handful of the cheese blend.
Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly to enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chimichangas to the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 chimichangas
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Beef Chimichangas: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
Chicken Chimichangas: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
Vegetarian Chimichangas: Use a combination of beans, rice, and vegetables in place of the meat for a meatless option.
Cheese Lovers: Add more cheese to the filling for an extra cheesy, gooey interior.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow leftover chimichangas to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat chimichangas in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, or heat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally to ensure even warming.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of cheese in chimichangas?

Yes! You can use any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend. Feel free to experiment based on your preferences.

2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the chimichangas.

3. Can I bake chimichangas instead of frying them?

Yes! To bake, place the rolled chimichangas on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with oil. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

4. Can I freeze these chimichangas?

Yes! After frying, allow the chimichangas to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

5. How do I reheat frozen chimichangas?

To reheat frozen chimichangas, place them in a preheated 375°F oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and heated through.

6. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. However, keep in mind that corn tortillas may break more easily than flour tortillas, so you might need to warm them before wrapping.

7. What sides should I serve with chimichangas?

Chimichangas pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, fresh salsa, guacamole, or a simple salad.

8. Can I make these chimichangas in advance?

You can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate them. Fry them just before serving for a crispy, fresh result.

9. How do I make these chimichangas less greasy?

To reduce the greasiness, make sure the oil temperature is high enough (around 350°F) before adding the chimichangas. Also, draining them on a paper towel helps remove excess oil.

10. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey works as a great lean alternative to ground beef in chimichangas. It will still provide a tasty filling when seasoned well.

Conclusion

These Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful dish that brings together savory beef, melty cheese, and a crispy, golden exterior. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner or a fun get-together, these chimichangas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Customize them to your liking, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!