Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious Mexican-inspired dish that combines savory ground beef, melted cheese, and spices, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. These tasty bites are perfect for a hearty meal or a fun appetizer, served hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole, for serving

Directions

1. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
2. Season the Beef:
   Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Add Cheese:
   Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.
4. Prepare the Tortillas:
   Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make them pliable.
5. Fill the Tortillas:
   Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll up the tortilla tightly to enclose the filling.
6. Heat the Oil:
   In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
7. Fry the Chimichangas:
   Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down in the skillet. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning as needed.
8. Drain and Serve:
   Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6

Variations

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein for a healthier option.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or queso blanco for a milder flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Include diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans in the beef mixture for added texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use an air fryer for extra crispiness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the chimichangas before frying.
2. Can I bake chimichangas instead of frying?
   Yes, brush them with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
3. What dipping sauces work best?
   Salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or even queso dip are great options.
4. Can I freeze chimichangas?
   Yes, freeze them before frying. Thaw in the refrigerator and fry or bake as usual.
5. What if I don’t have ground beef?
   Any ground meat can work, or you can use a mix of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option.
6. How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?
   Warming the tortillas helps keep them pliable and prevents cracking.
7. Can I use corn tortillas instead?
   Yes, but corn tortillas are more fragile. Be sure to warm them thoroughly.
8. How can I make them spicier?
   Add jalapeños or more chili powder to the beef mixture.
9. What’s the best way to drain the chimichangas?
   Use paper towels on a plate to absorb excess oil after frying.
10. Can I serve these for breakfast?
    Absolutely! They can be filled with scrambled eggs and cheese for a breakfast twist.

Conclusion

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a satisfying and flavorful dish that will please any crowd. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, savory filling, they’re perfect for any occasion. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for an enjoyable meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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