When you sink your teeth into a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga, the world around you fades away. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a savory filling of tender beef, gooey cheese, and an explosion of spices that dance on your tongue. Picture this: a cozy evening with friends, laughter echoing in the air while these delectable chimichangas sizzle away in the oven, filling your kitchen with aromas that could make even the pickiest eater weak at the knees.

Now imagine it’s a Saturday night. You’ve just finished binge-watching your favorite show for the third time this month. You’re contemplating dinner when the thought strikes—why not whip up those Beef and Cheese Chimichangas that have been lingering in your mind? They’re not just food; they’re a culinary hug wrapped in flour tortillas, perfect for any occasion from game night to taco Tuesday.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are easy to prepare and packed with flavor that everyone will enjoy
- Customize them based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand
- Their sizzling golden appearance makes them an impressive centerpiece for any meal
- Enjoy them as an appetizer or a main dish; they’re versatile enough for any occasion
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Flour Tortillas: Opt for large tortillas to ensure they can hold all the delicious filling without tearing.
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A must-have for that melty goodness; feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for some heat.
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Onion: Freshly chopped onion adds crunch and sweetness; sautéing it beforehand enhances its natural flavor.
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Garlic Powder: This pantry staple amps up the flavor profile without needing fresh garlic.
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Cumin: This spice brings warmth and depth to the beef mixture, making every bite unforgettable.
For the Sauce:
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Sour Cream: Use this as a creamy dip or drizzle—it’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
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Salsa: Fresh salsa adds brightness and can be adjusted based on how spicy you like your food.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Stir in chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté until onions are translucent—about five minutes. Your kitchen should smell incredible by now!
Step 4: Assemble the Chimichangas
Spoon about two tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese before folding them tightly like burritos.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the chimichangas seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Spray them lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to plates and drizzle sour cream and salsa over top for the perfect finishing touch. Don’t forget to share… unless you want them all to yourself!
Now there you have it! Your very own Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are ready to be devoured! Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself after a long week, these tasty rolls of joy are sure to impress everyone at your table!
You Must Know
- Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful fusion of flavors, making them perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings
- Their crispy exterior hides a cheesy, savory filling that’s simply irresistible
- Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or main dish, they’re sure to impress!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in a skillet, letting those delicious juices flow. While that sizzles, prepare your cheese and spices for a flavor explosion. Lastly, wrap and fry your chimichangas until golden brown for maximum crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Spice it up with jalapeños or experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Beef and Cheese Chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they’re hot and crispy again—no soggy chimichangas allowed!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef to keep your chimichangas from being overly greasy
- Don’t overfill the tortillas; too much filling can lead to messy frying
- Fry them in batches to ensure even cooking and avoid crowding the pan
I remember the first time I made Beef and Cheese Chimichangas for my friends—they were devoured within minutes! Their laughter and compliments made it clear that these tasty treats were a hit.
FAQs :
What are Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
Beef and cheese chimichangas are delicious deep-fried burritos filled with a savory mixture of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and sometimes additional ingredients like beans or spices. They originate from Mexican cuisine and are known for their crispy outer layer and flavorful filling. This dish is often served with toppings such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream, enhancing the overall flavor experience. The combination of textures and tastes makes beef and cheese chimichangas a popular choice for both casual meals and special occasions.
How do you make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas crispy?
To achieve the perfect crispy texture for your beef and cheese chimichangas, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) to create a golden-brown exterior quickly while keeping the filling moist. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan; frying in small batches allows for even cooking. After frying, place the chimichangas on paper towels to absorb excess oil, which helps maintain their crispiness until serving.
Can I make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare beef and cheese chimichangas ahead of time by assembling them without frying. Simply fill the tortillas with the beef mixture, roll them tightly, and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, you can fry them directly from the fridge; just allow a few extra minutes for cooking time. This method is great for meal prep or entertaining guests without spending too much time in the kitchen.
What sides pair well with Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
Beef and cheese chimichangas pair wonderfully with various sides that complement their flavors. Consider serving them with Mexican rice or refried beans for a hearty meal. Fresh sides like guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo add freshness and acidity that balance the richness of the chimichangas. You can also serve a simple green salad or corn on the cob to round out your meal nicely.
Conclusion for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas :
Beef and cheese chimichangas offer a delightful blend of flavors wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell. By carefully preparing the filling and ensuring proper frying techniques, you can create this mouthwatering dish at home. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or at a festive gathering, these chimichangas are sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings to elevate your meal further!

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food, featuring crispy, golden tortillas filled with savory ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for any gathering or cozy night in, these chimichangas are quick to prepare and offer a delightful crunch with every bite. Drizzle them with sour cream and salsa for an extra burst of flavor. Gather your friends and family because once they taste these delicious bites, they’ll be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray for baking
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; sauté until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Spoon about two tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, top with cheese, then fold tightly like burritos.
- Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of sour cream and salsa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (155g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg