Name: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 large flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray or oil for baking

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Imagine biting into a golden, crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichanga, where the flavors tango on your taste buds like they’re auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” The sizzling beef mingles with gooey cheese, creating an aroma so intoxicating that even your pet goldfish may swim closer to investigate. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or when you want to impress friends without turning your kitchen into a war zone.

I remember the first time I made Beef and Cheese Chimichangas; I was trying to impress a date who claimed to be a “foodie.” Picture me frantically flipping tortillas while dodging flying cheese and beef like a scene from an action movie. Spoiler alert: it was a hit! Now, whenever I make these delightful pockets of joy, I can’t help but chuckle at my earlier culinary chaos. So grab your apron and get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

This incredible Beef and Cheese Chimichangas transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Aim for about 1 pound.
Tortillas: Use large flour tortillas to hold all those tasty fillings without breaking apart.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates the melty goodness you crave.
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling; sauté until translucent.
Spices: Seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

For the Sauce:

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and balances out the spices perfectly.
Salsa: Use your favorite salsa to give it that authentic Mexican kick; fresh or store-bought works well.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake those chimichangas.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef along with diced onions. Cook until the meat is browned and onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat—nobody likes greasy chimichangas!

Step 3: Spice It Up

Add cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined and remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before adding cheese.

Step 4: Fill Those Tortillas

Lay out each tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon some of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly like a little burrito.

Step 5: Bake Them Crispy

Place rolled chimichangas seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray for that extra crispiness! Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Once done, let them cool slightly before serving! Transfer to plates, drizzle with sour cream and salsa, and enjoy your masterpiece while basking in compliments from family or guests.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every crunchy bite as you revel in knowing you’ve just made something extraordinary!

You Must Know About Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

This showstopping Beef and Cheese Chimichangas delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

For the best results in making Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, start by browning the beef with spices. While it cooks, warm your tortillas to make them pliable. Next, fill the tortillas and roll them tightly before frying for a perfectly crispy texture.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas! Swap out ground beef for shredded chicken or beans for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or add sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in an oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

This professional-quality Beef and Cheese Chimichangas relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas when friends come over, and their delighted faces as they take that first bite make all the kitchen chaos worthwhile!

FAQs

What is Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious Mexican dish featuring seasoned beef, melted cheese, and spices wrapped in a flour tortilla. These tortillas are then deep-fried until golden and crispy, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of juicy beef and creamy cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors, making them a favorite in many households. Often served with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are popular for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.

How do I make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas at home?

To make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas at home, start by cooking ground beef with spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic. Once the beef is fully cooked, mix in shredded cheese until melted. Place the mixture onto flour tortillas, fold them tightly, and secure with toothpicks if necessary. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the chimichangas until they are crispy and golden brown on all sides. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces for an authentic experience.

Can I bake Beef and Cheese Chimichangas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake Beef and Cheese Chimichangas for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). After filling the tortillas with beef and cheese mixture, brush them lightly with oil. Place them seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown. Baking gives you the same delicious flavor without the extra oil from frying.

What toppings go well with Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?

Toppings enhance the flavor of Beef and Cheese Chimichangas significantly. Popular choices include guacamole, sour cream, fresh salsa, or pico de gallo. You can also add shredded lettuce or diced tomatoes for extra freshness. A sprinkle of cilantro adds an aromatic touch that complements the dish perfectly. Feel free to customize your chimichanga toppings based on personal preference to create your ideal meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying for any meal occasion. With their crispy exterior filled with flavorful beef and gooey cheese, these chimichangas quickly become a family favorite. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, serving them with delicious toppings enhances their appeal even further. Try making Beef and Cheese Chimichangas today for an unforgettable dining experience!