Beef and cheese chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food, wrapping savory beef, gooey cheese, and spices into a crispy, golden-brown package that practically sings when you bite into it. The aroma wafting through your kitchen while they cook is enough to make even the pickiest eaters abandon their healthy kale salads for this cheesy delight. For more inspiration, check out this easy Rotel sausage crescents recipe.
Picture this: It’s a chilly Saturday evening, and the family is gathered around the table after a long week. You pull these crispy beauties out of the oven, and suddenly, everyone’s mood shifts from “meh” to “yummy!” There’s something magical about chimichangas; they’re perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in front of the TV with your favorite show. Trust me, once you get a taste of these beef and cheese chimichangas, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make them again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These beef and cheese chimichangas are incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of spices, tender beef, and melted cheese that will satisfy any craving.
- Their golden-brown exterior makes them visually appealing and irresistible.
- Plus, you can customize fillings based on your pantry staples or personal preferences.
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a rich flavor without excessive grease.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack gives the best melt and flavor.
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best as they are flexible enough to hold all the delicious fillings.
- Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth; feel free to sauté them before mixing.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
- Cooking Oil: Use vegetable oil for frying; it helps achieve that delightful golden color.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add diced onions during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet touch.
Step 2: Season with Spices
Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly coated in those wonderful spices.
Step 3: Mix in Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until it melts into the beef mixture. The gooeyness is what dreams are made of.
Step 4: Prepare Tortillas
Warm flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for about 10 seconds to make them pliable. This prevents tears when filling them up.
Step 5: Fill ‘Em Up
Spoon some of your heavenly beef and cheese mixture onto each tortilla. Roll it tightly but not so tight that you hear a snap! Make sure to tuck in the sides as you roll.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden
In a deep pan or fryer heated with oil at medium-high temperature (about 350°F/175°C), carefully place each chimichanga seam side down. Fry until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with salsa or sour cream for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about that time you tried making sushi at home (and failed spectacularly).
You Must Know
- Beef and cheese chimichangas bring a fiesta to your kitchen with their crispy, golden shells and cheesy, meaty goodness.
- They’re perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to game day.
- Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftovers in style!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the beef first to lock in that juicy flavor. While it cooks, prep your cheese mixture and warm the tortillas. Then, assemble and fry those beauties until golden and crispy. Efficiency is key to delicious chimichangas!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or turkey. Add black beans for extra fiber or jalapeños for a spicy kick. Top with fresh guacamole or sour cream—your taste buds will thank you!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to regain that crispy texture—no soggy chimichangas allowed!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always preheat your oil before frying for perfectly crispy chimichangas.
- Don’t overstuff; less is more when it comes to filling.
- Allow them to cool slightly before devouring; they’ll be scalding hot inside!
The first time I made beef and cheese chimichangas, my friends couldn’t stop raving about them! They insisted I should open a restaurant—who knew fried tortillas could spark such dreams?
FAQs:
What are Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
Beef and cheese chimichangas are deep-fried burritos filled with seasoned beef, cheese, and sometimes additional ingredients like beans or peppers. They offer a crispy outer shell and a savory filling, making them a popular choice in Mexican cuisine. savory cheeseburger sliders These delicious treats are often served with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor. The combination of tender beef and melted cheese wrapped in a tortilla creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
How do you make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy beef and cheese chimichangas, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) to prevent the chimichangas from absorbing too much grease. Fry them in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. Additionally, using flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas contributes to a crunchier texture. Finally, allowing them to drain on paper towels after frying helps maintain their crispiness.
Can I bake Beef and Cheese Chimichangas instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake beef and cheese chimichangas for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the assembled chimichangas on a baking sheet. Brush them lightly with oil or cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. While they may not be as crispy as fried versions, baked chimichangas still deliver great flavor. For more inspiration, check out this homemade Big Mac sauce recipe.
What sides pair well with Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
Beef and cheese chimichangas pair wonderfully with various sides that enhance their flavors. Classic options include Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty meal. Fresh guacamole adds creaminess, while salsa provides a zesty kick. A simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado can offer freshness to balance the richness of the chimichangas. Consider serving them with corn on the cob or chili con queso for an extra tasty experience.
Conclusion for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas:
In summary, beef and cheese chimichangas are an irresistible dish featuring a savory filling wrapped in a crispy tortilla. They can be deep-fried for that classic crunch or baked for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Enjoying these delicious chimichangas alongside fresh sides like guacamole or salsa elevates the dining experience. delicious chicken street tacos Whether for family gatherings or casual dinner nights, beef and cheese chimichangas promise satisfaction in every bite!
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef and cheese chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese wrapped in crispy flour tortillas. Perfect for family dinners or game nights, these golden-brown treats will have everyone coming back for seconds. With their irresistible aroma and satisfying crunch, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and add diced onions until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheeses until melted.
- Warm tortillas to make them pliable. Spoon beef mixture into each tortilla and roll tightly, tucking in sides.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry chimichangas seam-side down until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (150g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
