Description
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the perfect combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and a golden, crispy exterior. These chimichangas are quick and easy to prepare, making them a great option for a weeknight dinner or a fun snack for any occasion.
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
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Mix up the cheeses by using pepper jack, mozzarella, or crumbled queso fresco.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 50mg