If you’re a fan of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful meals, these Cheesy Beef Chimichangas will quickly become your new favorite! Filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fried to golden perfection, these chimichangas are an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or casual gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Golden & Crispy: Perfectly fried, with a crunchy, golden shell.
- Savory & Cheesy: A delicious combination of seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese.
- Easy to Customize: You can swap beef for chicken, turkey, or even a veggie filling.
- Great for Leftovers: These chimichangas are perfect for storing and reheating later.
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Chimichangas:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Chimichangas:
- 8 large flour tortillas (burrito-sized)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa or pico de gallo
How to Make Cheesy Beef Chimichangas – Step by Step:
Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the onions and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices toast for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.
- Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Let the filling cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable.
- Place about ⅓ cup of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly to seal in the filling.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden & Crispy
- Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the hot oil.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping until they are golden brown.
- Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve the chimichangas hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Pair with Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Beef Chimichangas:
- Use high-quality tortillas for the best texture – they will roll better and won’t break.
- Fry at the right temperature – Ensure the oil stays around 350°F (175°C) for the perfect crisp.
- Don’t overfill the chimichangas – too much filling can cause them to burst while frying.
- Secure with toothpicks if needed to prevent them from opening while frying.
What to Serve with Cheesy Beef Chimichangas:
Best Side Dishes:
- Mexican Rice – A classic, flavorful side.
- Refried Beans – Creamy and savory.
- Corn Salsa – Fresh and zesty, it contrasts well with the richness of the chimichangas.
- Avocado Lime Crema – A cool, creamy dipping sauce.
Drinks That Pair Well:
- Horchata – A sweet, cinnamon rice drink.
- Iced Tea – A refreshing, light option.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
How to Store & Reheat Cheesy Beef Chimichangas:
Refrigeration:
- Store chimichangas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Wrap in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Methods:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes, but the texture won’t be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make chimichangas in the air fryer?
- Yes! Brush them with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Can I bake chimichangas instead of frying?
- Absolutely! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
What’s the difference between a burrito and a chimichanga?
- A burrito is soft, while a chimichanga is deep-fried, making it crispy.
How do I keep my chimichangas from opening while frying?
- Start by placing the seam-side down in the oil first, and use toothpicks if needed.
More Tex-Mex Recipes to Try:
- Cheesy Chicken Avocado Wrap – Best Lunch & Dinner Idea
- Big Mac Casserole Recipe – Easy & Cheesy Dinner Idea
Conclusion:
These Cheesy Beef Chimichangas are the ultimate Tex-Mex dish, delivering crispy, golden perfection with savory, cheesy beef filling. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, these chimichangas will always be a hit! Perfect for any meal, they’re sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Try them tonight for a delicious dinner!
