Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

If you’re looking for a flavorful meal that delivers crispy perfection on the outside and a hearty, cheesy filling on the inside, Beef and Cheese Chimichangas should be at the top of your list. These golden fried burrito-like delights come packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and optional refried beans for an extra creamy bite. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner for your family or entertaining friends for a fun Mexican-themed night, chimichangas never fail to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re relatively simple to make, especially once you master the folding and frying technique, and the result is a dish everyone will rave about.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into every step of creating these mouthwatering chimichangas, from browning the beef to securing your tortillas with toothpicks, ensuring you end up with perfectly crisp and delicious results. We’ll also cover variations, storage tips, and answer some common questions about this recipe. By the end, you’ll be ready to whip up restaurant-worthy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas in your very own kitchen. Let’s get started!

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty Mexican-inspired dishes and wants something a bit more indulgent than a traditional taco or burrito. If you’re a busy parent, these chimichangas come together quickly enough for a midweek dinner but look and taste impressive enough to serve at a weekend gathering. College students will love how easy the technique is, and they’ll also appreciate that the recipe uses budget-friendly ingredients like ground beef, cheese, and tortillas. This recipe is also customizable for those who want less spice, more spice, or a vegetarian twist. Essentially, if you appreciate gooey cheese, juicy beef, and crispy tortillas, then this recipe is made for you!

Why This Recipe Is Great

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas stand out for their satisfying taste and texture. Each bite balances a rich, juicy filling and a crispy exterior that’s hard to resist. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is the perfect addition to your dinner rotation:

1. Perfect Texture Combination: Frying the rolled tortillas yields a crunchy exterior, while the melted cheese and saucy beef mixture provide a creamy interior.
2. Easily Customizable: From spice level to cheese choices and even protein swaps, it’s straightforward to adjust this dish to your preferences.
3. Kid-Approved: The mild spice level and cheesy goodness typically appeal to children, making it a family-friendly winner.
4. Meal Prep-Friendly: You can prepare and freeze chimichangas ahead of time, so they’re ready whenever you need a quick, filling meal.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

1. Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
2. Cutting Board and Knife: To finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out ingredients like tomato sauce and seasonings accurately.
4. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To break up and stir the ground beef.
5. Microwave or Additional Skillet: For warming tortillas to make them pliable.
6. Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven (for frying): Ideally something that can hold about 1 inch of oil and maintain a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
7. Kitchen Thermometer (Optional): Helpful for ensuring the oil stays at the right temperature for frying.
8. Paper Towels or Wire Rack: To drain excess oil after frying the chimichangas.
9. Toothpicks: To secure the tortillas during frying.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delicious chimichangas:

For the Filling

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
• ½ cup refried beans (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chimichangas

• 8 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
• Vegetable oil for frying (enough to fill about 1 inch in a skillet)
• Toothpicks (to secure the chimichangas)

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
2. Drain the Fat: Once the beef is cooked through, carefully remove any excess fat from the skillet. This ensures your filling isn’t greasy.
3. Add Onion and Garlic: Toss the chopped onion and minced garlic into the same skillet. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
4. Incorporate Seasonings: Stir in the taco seasoning mix, tomato sauce, and diced green chiles. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld.
5. Melt the Cheese & Optional Beans: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. If you’re including refried beans, gently stir them in now as well. The cheese should melt into the mixture, creating a thick, savory filling.
6. Cool Slightly: Set the skillet aside to let the mixture cool a bit. This makes it easier to handle when assembling the chimichangas.

2. Assemble the Chimichangas

1. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds or on a skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side. Warmed tortillas are more flexible and less likely to tear.
2. Fill Each Tortilla: Place approximately ¼ cup of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each tortilla. Spread it out slightly so it’s easier to roll.
3. Fold and Roll: Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then tightly roll it from the bottom upwards, burrito-style. Make sure the filling is fully enclosed so it doesn’t leak out during frying.
4. Secure with Toothpicks: Stick a toothpick or two through each rolled tortilla to keep them tightly sealed while frying.

3. Fry the Chimichangas

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in about 1 inch of vegetable oil. Warm it over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer if you have one, or test by dropping a small piece of tortilla into the oil—it should sizzle immediately if the oil is hot enough.
2. Fry Until Golden: Carefully place each chimichanga seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry them in batches so as not to crowd the pan. Flip them after 2–3 minutes, or once they turn golden brown, and fry the other side for another 2–3 minutes. Use tongs to handle them safely.
3. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the fried chimichangas to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain any extra oil. Remove the toothpicks while they are still hot but handle them carefully.

4. Serve with Optional Toppings

Serve your crispy chimichangas while they’re still fresh and hot. Top them with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro as desired.

Notes and Helpful Tips

1. Oil Temperature Matters: If your oil is too cool, your chimichangas may come out oily instead of crispy. If the oil is too hot, they might burn on the outside before the inside gets warm. Aim for around 350°F (175°C).
2. Avoid Overfilling: It can be tempting to load up your tortillas with more filling than recommended, but this often leads to leaks and uneven cooking. Stick to about ¼ cup per tortilla.
3. Cheese Selection: While cheddar or Mexican blend cheeses are popular, you can experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you want an extra spicy kick.
4. Mind the Moisture: Make sure to drain the excess fat from the beef mixture. Too much liquid in the filling can make the chimichangas soggy.
5. Baked Option: If you prefer a lighter version, you can brush the rolled tortillas with a bit of oil or melted butter and bake them at 400°F (205°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variations and Swaps

1. Protein Swaps: Replace the ground beef with shredded chicken, turkey, or even pulled pork. For a vegetarian version, try sautéed mushrooms or a hearty mixture of black beans, onions, and peppers.
2. Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of taco seasoning to up the heat. For those who like a milder taste, omit spicy components like green chiles or opt for a mild taco seasoning.
3. Sauce Additions: Looking for a richer flavor? Mix in enchilada sauce or a bit of chipotle sauce instead of tomato sauce.
4. Tortilla Types: If you’re feeling adventurous and want a more rustic taste, you can use whole wheat or flavored tortillas (like spinach or tomato-basil). Just keep in mind that the frying time may vary slightly.
5. Toppings Galore: Don’t stop at sour cream or guacamole—drizzle on hot sauce, queso fresco, or even a fresh pico de gallo for extra zest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these chimichangas in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare and roll the chimichangas (including the filling) and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying. This is great if you want to plan ahead for a gathering or a busy evening. Just be sure to keep them sealed in an airtight container and don’t fry them until you’re ready to serve.

2. How do I reheat leftover chimichangas?

The best way to reheat them is in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until the filling is warmed through and the exterior is crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for about 5–8 minutes at 350°F for a similar effect.

3. Can I freeze chimichangas?

Yes! If you want to freeze them before frying, wrap each assembled (but not yet fried) chimichanga in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then fry or bake as usual. For fully cooked and fried chimichangas, cool them completely, wrap individually, and freeze. Reheat in the oven or air fryer so they crisp back up.

4. What if I don’t have refried beans?

Refried beans are optional, as they mainly add a creamy texture to the filling. If you don’t have any on hand, you can skip them or replace with cooked pinto beans, black beans, or simply omit beans entirely.

5. How can I prevent the tortillas from tearing?

Warming the tortillas is key. If the tortillas are too cold or stiff, they’re more likely to tear. A quick heat in the microwave or on a skillet makes them soft and pliable, minimizing tears.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chimichangas, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Microwaving is faster but can leave the tortilla soggy.

Food and Drink Pairings

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas pair perfectly with classic Mexican sides like Mexican rice, pinto beans, or a fresh corn salad for brightness and sweetness. If you’re looking to keep it low-key, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chimichangas. For drinks, horchata or a simple limeade keeps the meal refreshing. For the adults, a light beer or margarita is a fun option that complements the savory spiciness of the dish.

Conclusion 

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas offer a delectable way to enjoy classic Mexican-inspired flavors in a crispy, satisfying shell. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or add your own spin with different meats, sauces, or toppings, you’ll find that it’s easy to customize chimichangas to suit your personal palate. With just a little prep work and a few common ingredients, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Don’t be surprised if these become a regular fixture in your household’s meal rotation—they’re just that good! If you tried this recipe, we’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you introduced along the way.

Loved this recipe? Share it with friends and family, and invite them to indulge in crispy, cheesy bliss! Plus, don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration.