As I flipped through my favorite Tex-Mex cookbook, the sight of crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas leaped off the page, shimmering with golden promise. This Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe has swiftly become a go-to for me, effortlessly transforming busy weeknights into a fiesta of flavor. Not only does it deliver on taste with its seasoned ground beef and oozy cheese, but it also allows for some serious customization—perfect for pleasing everyone at the table, from meat lovers to vegetarians. Whether you choose to fry them for that irresistible crunch or bake them for a healthier twist, these chimichangas are sure to be a hit. Ready to embark on a delicious culinary adventure? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Chimichangas So Irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: Every bite of these chimichangas offers that addictive crunch from your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant, yet they’re easily made at home.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer classic beef or want to try a vegetarian option packed with sautéed veggies, this recipe adapts to your cravings.
Quick Preparation: Whip these up in under an hour—perfect for busy nights when time is of the essence!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the gooey, cheesy filling, making these a hit at any family gathering.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep and freeze unbaked chimichangas for a future meal, so you always have a quick dinner option on hand.
With all these reasons, you’re bound to love this recipe as much as I do!
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Beef – Provides protein and flavor; opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease.
• Onion – Adds depth of flavor when cooked; shallots could work as a tasty alternative.
• Garlic – Enhances the aroma and taste of the filling; fresh minced garlic is preferred.
• Taco Seasoning – Offers classic Tex-Mex flavor; a homemade blend can elevate the taste.
• Salsa – Keeps the filling moist and adds delicious flavor; choose your favorite variety.
• Refried Beans – Adds creaminess and protein to the filling; black beans are great for a vegetarian option.
• Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully for rich taste; consider a Mexican cheese blend for authentic flavor.
For Wrapping and Cooking
• Flour Tortillas – Essential for wrapping; choose large (10-inch) to prevent tearing.
• Vegetable Oil – For frying or brushing; can be substituted with canola oil or melted butter for baking.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef along with a finely chopped onion until the beef is cooked through, approximately 7–10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess grease, then stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 packet of taco seasoning, and ½ cup of salsa. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes until the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Assemble Chimichangas
Lay out warm flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla, followed by a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Carefully fold the sides inwards, ensuring the filling is secure, and then roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom to the top to encase the delicious filling.
Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method
For frying, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chimichangas seam-side down for 2–3 minutes on each side or until they turn a lovely golden brown. If baking is your choice, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the chimichangas seam-side down on a greased baking sheet, brush the tops with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes until crisp and golden.
Step 4: Serve with Your Favorites
Once cooked, let the chimichangas cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with sour cream, fresh guacamole, or pico de gallo for an extra punch of flavor. The crispy exterior and gooey beef and cheese filling will make these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas the star of your dinner table.
What to Serve with Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Imagine a vibrant Tex-Mex feast that brings the family together, bursting with flavors and textures to complement every bite.
- Zesty Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices and lime, it adds a refreshing balance to the rich chimichangas.
- Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip adds a cooling contrast that enhances the spiciness of the dish.
- Fresh Pico de Gallo: The bright, tangy salsa brings freshness and a burst of color to your plate.
- Black Beans: These provide a hearty, nutritious side, and their earthiness complements the flavors of the chimichangas beautifully.
Pairing these with your chimichangas will elevate your meal to new heights. For a delightful finish, serve with:
- Churros: These crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated treats offer a sweet, satisfying conclusion to your fun fiesta.
- Margaritas: The tangy, refreshing drink brightens up the meal and brings a festive spirit to any gathering.
Make Ahead Options
These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can assemble the chimichangas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking them. Alternatively, freeze unbaked chimichangas for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. To maintain their quality, ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and for the best texture, consider frying them for that irresistible crunch! With this prep, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready in no time!
Expert Tips for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Use Warm Tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are warm before filling; this prevents tears and makes rolling them easier.
- Secure Seams: If frying, secure the seams with a toothpick during cooking to keep everything inside and prevent spills.
- Don’t Overfill: Less is more! Overfilling can lead to broken chimichangas; keep it to a modest amount of filling per tortilla.
- Crispiness Factor: For the best texture, avoid microwaving leftovers. Instead, reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore that delightful crunch.
- Experiment Freely: Feel free to customize the filling to fit your taste—explore vegetarian substitutes or different proteins in your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe!
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe and make it your own!
- Bean & Beef: Incorporate refried beans into the filling for added creaminess and texture, making each bite even more delightful.
- Spicy Chimichangas: For a kick, toss in diced jalapeños or swap the cheese for pepper jack. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace the beef with sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and black beans for a cheerful vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying.
- Breakfast Style: Swap beef for scrambled eggs and cheese for a delicious breakfast chimichanga that makes mornings a fiesta!
- Sauced-Up: Top your chimichangas with salsa verde or enchilada sauce before serving to add an extra layer of flavor.
- Crunchy Corn: Sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips in the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy cheese.
- Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for a burst of freshness that brightens the whole dish.
- BBQ Flair: Mix some barbecue sauce into the beef for a smoky, unexpected flavor that pairs perfectly with the tortillas.
Whatever variation you choose, you’re sure to impress everyone at your table! And if you need other meal ideas, feel free to explore the Mac Cheese Meatloaf or get fancy with an Elegant Boursin Cheese dish. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Fridge: Store cooked chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked chimichangas wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time for best results.
Reheating: For crispy chimichangas, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through; avoid microwaving to retain crispiness.
Make-Ahead Magic: Feel free to assemble the Beef and Cheese Chimichangas ahead of time to simplify meal prep during busy weeks!
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef (85% or 90% lean) for a great balance between flavor and reduced grease. You can also substitute it with ground turkey or shredded chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
How should I store leftover chimichangas?
For cooked chimichangas, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can still be delicious, just make sure the container is sealed tightly to retain freshness.
Can I freeze chimichangas? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze unbaked chimichangas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake them, cook directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time at 400°F (200°C).
What should I do if my chimichangas are tearing while wrapping?
Very! To prevent tearing, ensure your tortillas are warm before filling; this makes them much more pliable. If they do tear, place a bit of your filling into a bowl and use the pieces to make a mini chimichanga—no filling wasted!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! If you’re making this recipe for someone with food allergies, be mindful of the ingredients like garlic, onion, or cheese that may cause issues. For a vegetarian option, simply swap out ground beef for sautéed veggies and black beans.
How do I reheat chimichangas while keeping them crispy?
For the best reheating results, I recommend avoiding the microwave. Instead, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chimichangas on a baking sheet for about 10–15 minutes until heated through. You can brush them lightly with oil to bring back that wonderful crispiness!
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe: Crispy Tex-Mex Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with a finely chopped onion until cooked through, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess grease, then stir in minced garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Lay out warm flour tortillas. Spread a spoonful of refried beans on each, followed by a scoop of beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold sides in and roll tightly.
- For frying, heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) and fry chimichangas seam-side down for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place on greased baking sheet, brush tops with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Once cooked, let chimichangas cool slightly before serving. Garnish with sour cream, guacamole, or pico de gallo.