Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned beef with oozy cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This recipe is a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself and your family to something special. Whether you serve them as a main dish or a fun snack, chimichangas are sure to please everyone at your table.
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Why Make This Recipe
Making Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas is an excellent choice for several reasons. First, they are easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Second, this dish is customizable—feel free to add vegetables or switch out the cheese to suit your taste. Finally, chimichangas are perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week. With just a few straightforward steps, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and delicious.
How to Make Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup salsa or diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons oil for brushing or frying
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Salsa (optional)
- Tomatoes (optional)
- Guacamole (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the salsa (or diced tomatoes) and cook until the mixture is thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Warm the tortillas for about 10-15 seconds in the microwave to make them pliable.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly to form a burrito shape.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
How to Serve Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas
Serve your Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas warm, straight from the skillet. They taste amazing on their own, but you can make them even better with some sides. Consider offering sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, or guacamole for dipping. Fresh cilantro can also add a pop of flavor and color.
How to Store Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas
If you have any leftovers, let the chimichangas cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or toaster oven for a crispy texture instead of the microwave.
Tips to Make Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas
- Make sure to drain excess grease from the beef to avoid soggy chimichangas.
- Do not overfill the tortillas, or they will be difficult to roll.
- Brush the tortillas with oil before frying to achieve an extra crispy texture.
Variation
You can easily customize your chimichangas! Try adding beans, corn, or different types of cheese to the filling. You can also experiment with shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
FAQs
How can I make my chimichangas spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying them?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush them with oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.
Can I freeze Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before frying. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and fry or bake as directed.
Crispy Beef & Cheesy Chimichangas
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Make sure to drain excess grease after cooking.
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup salsa or diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend Can be substituted with other cheese.
Wrapping Ingredients
- 6 large flour tortillas Warm them for easier rolling.
- 2 tablespoons oil for brushing or frying Adds crispiness.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro For garnish.
- Sour cream For serving.
- Salsa For serving.
- Diced tomatoes For serving.
- Guacamole For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the salsa (or diced tomatoes) and cook until the mixture is thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Warm the tortillas for about 10-15 seconds in the microwave to make them pliable.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly to form a burrito shape.
Cooking
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
