Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious Mexican-inspired dish that combines seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, all wrapped in a flour tortilla and fried to a crispy golden brown. These flavorful treats are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, served hot with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Ingredients

• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ 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. Add Spices and Cheese: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.
3. Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make them pliable.
4. Assemble Chimichangas: Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly to enclose the filling.
5. Fry the Chimichangas: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning as needed. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve: Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers.
• Spicy Chimichangas: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I bake chimichangas instead of frying them?
   Yes, you can brush them with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden.
2. Can I freeze chimichangas?
   Yes, assemble and freeze uncooked chimichangas in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and cook directly from frozen.
3. What kind of meat can I use?
   Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes for ground beef.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time, then fry them just before serving.
5. What toppings work best?
   Common toppings include salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.
6. How can I make them healthier?
   Use whole wheat tortillas and lean ground meat or beans for a lighter version.
7. What side dishes pair well?
   Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.
8. Can I use a different type of tortilla?
   Yes, corn tortillas can be used, but they may require a little more care when rolling.
9. Are chimichangas gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free tortillas to make them suitable for a gluten-free diet.
10. How do I know when they are done frying?
    They should be golden brown and crispy on all sides; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.

Conclusion

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of Mexican cuisine. They are easy to make and customize, making them a great choice for any meal or gathering. With their crispy exterior and cheesy filling, these chimichangas are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings for a truly satisfying dish!

Print