Name: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 6 large flour tortillas; 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; Vegetable oil, for frying; Salsa, for serving; Sour cream, for serving; Guacamole, for serving

Why You’ll Love Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe

These chimichangas are incredibly satisfying, with a crisp exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, game day, or just craving something comforting, this recipe delivers bold flavors and crunchy textures. They’re easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and pair perfectly with your favorite toppings like salsa and guacamole.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 large flour tortillas
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Vegetable oil, for frying
Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole, for serving

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then mix in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
Spoon about 1/6 of the beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Fold the sides of the tortilla in, then roll up from the bottom to enclose the filling completely.
Heat a large amount of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chimichangas until golden brown on all sides, turning as needed. Drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 chimichangas.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option.
Add cooked rice or black beans to the filling for extra texture and heartiness.
Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Bake the chimichangas at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of frying for a healthier version.
Add chopped green chiles or jalapeños for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispiness.

FAQs

How do I keep the chimichangas from unrolling while frying?

Make sure to fold the sides in tightly and roll them firmly. You can also secure them with toothpicks during frying, then remove before serving.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the chimichangas and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying. For longer storage, freeze before frying.

Can I freeze chimichangas?

Yes, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Fry or bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely. Brush with oil and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

What oil is best for frying chimichangas?

Vegetable oil or canola oil work well due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Flour tortillas are best for chimichangas because they’re more pliable and hold together during frying.

What other toppings can I use?

Try shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, hot sauce, or queso for variety.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked beans, seasoned tofu, or a meat alternative.

Why did my chimichangas come out soggy?

If the oil isn’t hot enough, the tortillas absorb too much oil. Make sure your oil is at the right temperature before frying.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture, or use a spicy cheese blend.

Conclusion

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed meal that brings a delicious Tex-Mex experience to your table. Whether fried or baked, they’re simple to make and perfect for customizing to your taste. Serve them with your favorite toppings and enjoy a crunchy, satisfying bite every time.