Description
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are savory, crunchy treats filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and aromatic spices, all wrapped in a golden-brown tortilla. Whether fried or baked, they are perfect for family dinners or parties, especially when paired with fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, or zesty sour cream.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
8 large flour tortillas
Spices: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease and stir in the spices (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder). Set aside.
- Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas slightly by microwaving for 10-15 seconds or on a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side.
- Assemble the Chimichangas: Place 1/4 cup of beef mixture and 2 tablespoons of cheese on each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll tightly to form a burrito shape.
- Fry the Chimichangas: Heat vegetable oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Fry the chimichangas seam-side down for 3-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Notes
Baked Option: For a healthier alternative, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Customize Your Fillings: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or black beans for extra flavor and texture. You can also try different types of cheese like pepper jack or Mexican blend.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and fry when ready to cook.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Fried or Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
