cheesy beef chimichangas

cheesy beef chimichangas

 Cheesy Beef Chimichangas: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight

Introduction

Cheesy beef chimichangas are a flavorful Tex-Mex dish that combines a crispy fried tortilla with a savory, cheesy beef filling. Whether baked or deep-fried, these golden delights are perfect for dinner or as a special treat. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make the perfect cheesy beef chimichangas, including key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips to make them restaurant-quality.

Why You'll Adore This Recipe

Crispy Perfection: A crispy golden tortilla shell with a flavorful filling.

Cheesy Delight: Heaps of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

Family Meal: A flavorsome meal to delight children and adults alike.

Make-Ahead Feature: Freely freezes to make ahead and reuse later.

Ingredients 

Preparing proper cheesy beef chimichangas requires these following ingredients:

For the Filling

1½ pounds of ground beef

1 medium-sized onion, chopped into small bits

1 minced clove of garlic

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup refried beans (optional for a bit of texture)

1 cup salsa (mild or spicy according to taste)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Chimichangas

8 large flour tortillas (10-inch)

Vegetable or canola oil (for frying or baking)

Toothpicks (to keep the chimichangas together)

Toppings (Optional but Recommended)

Sour cream

Guacamole

Chopped lettuce

Diced tomatoes

Sliced jalapeños

Cheesy Beef Chimichangas

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Heat a medium-large skillet over medium and add the ground beef. Brown, breaking with a spatula.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is softened.

3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until the spices are well mixed with the beef. Stand for 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the salsa and refried beans (if using), stirring to mix. Simmer for 5 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool a bit.

Step 2: Putting the Chimichangas together

1. Set a tortilla flat and spoon about ⅓ cup of the beef mixture onto the center.

2. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef.

3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly, holding in place with toothpicks.

Step 3: Frying or Baking

Frying Method (Traditional and Crispy)

1. Heat oil in a big skillet to roughly 350°F (175°C) over about an inch.

2. Place the chimichangas seam side down in hot oil. Fry for roughly 2-3 minutes on each side, or golden brown.

3. Drain and remove.

Baking Method (Healthier Choice)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Brush chimichangas lightly with some oil.

3. Place them on a baking sheet and bake 20-25 minutes, half way through turning.

4. Drain golden brown and crispy.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef Chimichangas

Place the chimichangas on a plate and top with sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Serve with Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.

Add additional salsa or hot sauce for spice lovers.

Pro Tips for the Best Chimichangas

Use New Tortillas: New tortillas are pliable and will not crack when rolled.

Don't Overfill: Too much filling will cause the chimichangas to burst open when cooked.

Pin with Toothpicks: This keeps them from unrolling when they are fried or baked.

Double Fry for Max Crispness: Double-fry them to get a crispy outside, even like restaurant-made chimichangas.

Storing & Reheating

Freezing Chimichangas

Prepare the chimichangas but do not fry or bake them.

Wrap individual chimichangas in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer bag.

Freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes.

Air Fryer: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Microwave: Don't use since they become soggy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~350

Protein: 22g

Carbs: 35g

Fat: 18g

Sodium: 650mg

Final Thoughts

Cheesy beef chimichangas are a must-have if you like crispy, cheesy, and delicious Tex-Mex food. aked or fried, they make an unbeatable meal that is satisfying and easy to prepare. Try this recipe at home, and don't forget to experiment with different toppings and spices based on your taste, We would love to hear about your experience! Comment below how it turned out, if you made any changes, or if you have any secret ingredients that make it extraordinary. Your feedback aids us and other readers in perfecting their cooking skill.

Enjoy cooking!

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