Delicious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Introduction
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful and savory treat that is perfect for any occasion. These crispy, deep-fried burritos are filled with delicious ground beef, refried beans, and melty cheese, making them a favorite for families and gatherings. If you’re looking for a dish that is both comforting and satisfying, this recipe promises to deliver on flavor and fun!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Beef and Cheese Chimichangas at home is not only rewarding but also budget-friendly. By using simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. The dish allows for creativity, as you can customize the fillings to suit your taste. Plus, they are perfect for any meal – be it lunch, dinner, or even snacks for a party. They’re easy to share, making them great for family gatherings and friendly get-togethers.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Making these tasty chimichangas is straightforward and fun. Follow these simple directions to create a delicious feast!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs. ground beef
- 1 can refried beans
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2 tsp. minced garlic
- 2 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. cumin
- ½ tsp. oregano
- 10 10-inch flour tortillas
- 24 oz. tomato sauce
- 4 oz. diced green chilis in a can
- 4 oz. chopped jalapenos in a can
- 1 ½ cups shredded taco blend cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Directions:
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Cook ground beef: Add the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until the meat is brown, then drain the excess liquid. See step here.
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Prepare filling mixture: To the skillet, add refried beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ½ cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes while stirring. See step here.
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Heat tortillas: Warm the tortillas in the microwave until soft. See step here.
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Prepare frying oil: Pour about an inch of oil into a deep-sided skillet and heat over medium-high heat. See step here.
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Fill and roll chimichangas: Place even amounts of filling into the center of each tortilla. Fold the end over the filling, tuck the sides, and roll closed. Use a toothpick to secure. See step here.
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Fry chimichangas: Gently place the chimichangas in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Keep a close watch as they cook fast. See step here.
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Drain excess grease: Allow the chimichangas to cool on a paper towel-lined tray to remove excess grease. See step here.
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Prepare topping sauce: In a saucepan, combine the remaining tomato sauce, green chilis, and jalapenos. Heat until warm, adding salt and pepper to taste. See step here.
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Serve: Ladle the sauce over the chimichangas, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and enjoy! See step here.
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Serve your chimichangas hot, topped with your favorite condiments such as sour cream, guacamole, or fresh salsa. They pair perfectly with a side of rice and beans or a fresh green salad.
How to Store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
If you have leftovers, store the chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or microwave until warm.
Tips to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Ensure the tortillas are warm before filling them to prevent cracking.
- Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding the pan.
- Experiment with different cheeses or add veggies to the filling for variety.
Variation
Feel free to switch up the protein by using chicken or turkey instead of beef. You can also add black beans, corn, or different spices to create your unique version!
FAQs
1. Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying them?
Yes! To bake them, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the chimichangas with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
2. Can I freeze chimichangas?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before frying. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
3. What can I serve with chimichangas?
Chimichangas are great with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with dips like queso or guacamole.
Enjoy making and sharing these scrumptious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas with family and friends!
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 can refried beans
- 0.5 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 0.5 tsp oregano
- 10 10-inch flour tortillas
- 24 oz tomato sauce
- 4 oz diced green chilis in a can
- 4 oz chopped jalapenos in a can
- 1.5 cups shredded taco blend cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Preparation
- Add the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until the meat is brown, then drain the excess liquid.
- To the skillet, add refried beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ½ cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes while stirring.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave until soft.
- Pour about an inch of oil into a deep-sided skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
Assembly and Cooking
- Place even amounts of filling into the center of each tortilla. Fold the end over the filling, tuck the sides, and roll closed. Use a toothpick to secure.
- Gently place the chimichangas in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Keep a close watch as they cook fast.
- Allow the chimichangas to cool on a paper towel-lined tray to remove excess grease.
Serving
- In a saucepan, combine the remaining tomato sauce, green chilis, and jalapenos. Heat until warm, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the sauce over the chimichangas, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and enjoy!
