Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
These crispy, golden Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the perfect mix of savory ground beef, melted cheese, and spices all wrapped up in a crispy, crunchy tortilla. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night, these chimichangas are always a hit!
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1/2 cup water
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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8 large flour tortillas
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Oil for frying
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Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
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Cook the beef mixture:
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. -
Season the beef:
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing everything together until the seasoning is evenly distributed. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. -
Assemble the chimichangas:
Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface. Place a generous scoop of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla. Top with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Be careful not to overfill them to ensure they roll up nicely. -
Roll the chimichangas:
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly, securing the filling inside. Make sure to tuck in the edges to prevent any filling from spilling out during frying. -
Fry the chimichangas:
Heat enough oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat to cover the chimichangas halfway. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully place the chimichangas in the oil, seam-side down, and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. -
Serve:
Once all the chimichangas are fried, serve them with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro.
Tips & Notes:
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Baked version: For a lighter version, bake the chimichangas at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden and crispy.
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Add veggies: You can mix in some diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or black beans for extra flavor and texture.
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Make it spicier: Add a bit of hot sauce or diced green chilies to the beef mixture if you like it spicy.
Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas makes these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas irresistibly delicious. The taco seasoning provides a burst of flavor, while the cheese melts beautifully inside, making every bite warm and satisfying. Plus, the crispy golden exterior adds the perfect crunch to each bite.
Enjoy your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, and don’t forget to top them with all your favorite garnishes!