Directions
Making these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas is quick and easy, and the results are crispy, cheesy perfection. Here’s how to make them:
- Prepare the beef filling: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove excess grease if needed. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season the beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and beef broth (or water), then mix until everything is well combined. If you’re using green chilies, add them to the mixture now. Let the beef mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the beef.
- Assemble the chimichangas: Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef and cheese mixture into the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito shape.
- Fry the chimichangas: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping in a small piece of tortilla—if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully add the chimichangas seam-side down. Fry them in batches, turning occasionally, for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy: Once your chimichangas are crispy and golden, serve them with a side of sour cream, salsa, and guacamole. The coolness of the sour cream and the freshness of the salsa perfectly balance the richness of the chimichangas.
Nutritional Information
For those who are keeping track of nutritional values, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
This dish is rich and satisfying, perfect for when you need a hearty meal that delivers on flavor and crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas turn out perfect, here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Overfilling the tortillas: Don’t overstuff your tortillas, or they won’t fry properly and may burst open. Stick to around 1/4 cup of filling per tortilla.
- Not sealing the chimichangas properly: Be sure to tuck in the edges of the tortilla when rolling it up to avoid the filling spilling out during frying.
- Frying at too high a temperature: If the oil is too hot, the chimichangas will brown too quickly on the outside but remain soggy inside. Keep the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
- Skipping the draining process: After frying, it’s essential to place the chimichangas on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
Helpful Tips
For even more deliciousness, consider the following tips when making your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas:
- Cheese options: Mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even cream cheese for a creamy, cheesy filling.
- Make it spicy: Add some jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes inside the chimichangas to give them an extra kick.
- Baking option: If you prefer not to fry, you can bake your chimichangas in the oven. Simply brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make ahead: The beef filling can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can assemble and fry the chimichangas later for a quick meal.
Conclusion
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a classic Tex-Mex dish that combines everything we love about comfort food: crispy tortillas, savory beef, and melted cheese. This recipe is easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and versatile enough to be customized with your favorite toppings or fillings. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, these chimichangas are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious crunch of a perfectly fried Beef and Cheese Chimichanga. Don’t forget to add your favorite condiments like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole to complete the meal. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!
