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Cheesy Beef Chimichangas

Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for a Satisfying Dinner

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Cheesy Beef Chimichangas are golden, crispy delights packed with seasoned beef and gooey cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 chimichangas
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) Substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 small Onion (finely chopped) Use shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Substitute with coriander for a different profile.
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder Adjust to taste or use smoked chili powder for added depth.
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika Use regular paprika for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 cup Tomato Sauce Substitute with salsa or diced tomatoes as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Substitute with Colby or pepper jack for extra flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese Use mozzarella for a melty texture.
For Assembly
  • 8 large Flour Tortillas Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different option.
  • Vegetable Oil (for frying) Opt for canola or peanut oil for a different flavor.
For Toppings
  • Shredded Lettuce
  • Diced Tomatoes
  • Sour Cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa or Pico de Gallo

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Deep skillet
  • Microwave
  • Tongs
  • Airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for another 5 minutes until tender. Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Mix in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
  2. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until soft and pliable. This prevents cracking when rolled. Keep them covered with a kitchen towel to maintain warmth.
  3. Place about ⅓ cup of the cheesy beef mixture in the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom up to secure the filling. Ensure a tight seal and repeat until all chimichangas are assembled.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  5. Serve the hot chimichangas alongside a platter of your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. Pair them with Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1chimichangaCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a lighter option, consider air-frying the chimichangas at 375°F (190°C) after brushing them lightly with oil for a crispy finish.

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