Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are packed with flavor and texture. The seasoned beef and gooey cheese are wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, then fried until golden and crisp. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Plus, you can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes by adding your favorite vegetables, spices, or sauces.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
6 large flour tortillas
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion. Stir occasionally and break the beef apart as it cooks.
Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, drain any excess fat.
Add taco seasoning and water to the beef mixture. Stir to combine and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly.
Place a tortilla on a flat surface and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef mixture.
Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly into a burrito shape, securing the filling inside.
Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot (350°F), carefully place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down into the oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Use tongs to remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve immediately with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy chimichangas: For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Ground turkey or chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish.
Different cheeses: Mix it up by using different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or crumbled queso fresco.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until crispy. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side to bring back the crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these chimichangas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake these chimichangas for a healthier option. Brush the wrapped chimichangas with a little oil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Can I freeze the chimichangas before frying them?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, uncooked chimichangas on a baking sheet and then store them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry or bake from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

3. What type of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil or canola oil works best for frying as they have a high smoke point and produce a crispy texture.

4. How do I prevent the chimichangas from opening while frying?

Make sure to roll the chimichangas tightly and seal the edges with a little water before frying. Fry them seam-side down first to help keep them sealed.

5. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

While flour tortillas are typically used for chimichangas, corn tortillas can be used for a different flavor, but they may not crisp up as well.

6. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chimichangas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before frying. Simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

7. How do I make these chimichangas more flavorful?

Add extra spices like garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, or chili powder to the beef mixture to enhance the flavor.

8. Are these chimichangas gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortillas and ensure the taco seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free.

9. Can I use a deep fryer to cook the chimichangas?

Yes, a deep fryer is perfect for cooking chimichangas. Just be sure to set the temperature to around 350°F and cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

10. What toppings can I serve with these chimichangas?

You can serve them with a variety of toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, or chopped tomatoes.

Conclusion

Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick, delicious, and easy to make. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, a party, or just because you’re craving something crispy and cheesy, this recipe will not disappoint. Customize the filling, try different toppings, and enjoy this satisfying meal any time!