Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Crispy beef and cheese chimichangas are a delightful treat that everyone will love. These delicious rolls are perfect for weeknight meals or family gatherings, bringing a taste of Mexico to your table. The combination of juicy beef, creamy cheese, and crispy tortillas makes these chimichangas a standout dish. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of spices and ingredients creates a rich, savory filling that will satisfy any craving.
• Versatile Dish: Customize the chimichangas with your favorite toppings, from sour cream to guacamole.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 10 servings, these chimichangas are great for parties or family dinners.
• Freezable Option: You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before we dive into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Deep-sided skillet
• Microwave
• Tongs
• Toothpicks
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is essential for browning the beef and mixing the filling evenly.
• Deep-sided skillet: Perfect for frying the chimichangas to achieve that desired crispiness without splattering oil.

Ingredients

Crispy beef and cheese chimichangas perfect for weeknight meals or family gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 1 ½ lbs. ground beef
– 1 can refried beans
– ½ medium onion, chopped
– 2 tsp. minced garlic
– 2 tsp. chili powder
– 1 tsp. cumin
– ½ tsp. oregano
– 10 10-inch flour tortillas
– 24 oz. tomato sauce
– 4 oz. diced green chilis in a can
– 4 oz. chopped jalapenos in a can
– 1 ½ cups shredded taco blend cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat on the stove. Cook until the meat is completely browned, then drain off the excess liquid.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Place the beans, onion, minced garlic, ½ cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and salt and pepper into the skillet with the meat. Cook for another 5 minutes over medium heat while stirring well.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

Heat the tortillas in the microwave until they are warm enough to be pliable.

Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying

Pour about an inch of oil into a deep-sided skillet and heat it over medium-high heat on the stove.

Step 5: Fill the Tortillas

Put an even amount of filling into the center of each tortilla. Fold one end over the filling, tuck in both sides, and roll it up tightly to form a packet. Secure with a toothpick.

Step 6: Fry Chimichangas

Carefully place the filled chimichangas into the hot oil. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides; this won’t take long.

Step 7: Drain Excess Grease

Remove chimichangas from oil and let them cool on a paper towel-lined tray to absorb any excess grease.

Step 8: Heat Tomato Sauce Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine remaining tomato sauce, green chilis, and jalapenos. Heat until warm; add salt and pepper if needed.

Step 9: Serve Your Chimichangas

Ladle sauce over finished chimichangas and top with shredded cheese before serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Beef and cheese chimichangas are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, these crispy delights offer endless serving possibilities.

With Fresh Toppings

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances the flavors of the chimichangas.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top enhances the dish’s creaminess and flavor.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds a burst of freshness and color to your meal.

As a Platter

• Chimichanga Platter: Arrange several beef and cheese chimichangas on a large platter for sharing.
• Dipping Sauces: Include a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, ranch, or hot sauce for added excitement.

With Sides

• Rice and Beans: Serve alongside traditional Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
• Salad: A light side salad with lime dressing complements the richness of the chimichangas.

How to Perfect Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Making perfect beef and cheese chimichangas is easier than you think. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh ground beef and homemade sauces to enhance flavors.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the tortillas; this helps them fry evenly without bursting.
• Seal Properly: Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent leakage during frying.
• Control Temperature: Maintain proper oil temperature while frying for crispiness without greasiness.
• Rest Before Serving: Let them cool slightly before serving; this allows the filling to set.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Pairing delicious side dishes with your beef and cheese chimichangas can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options that complement this tasty dish perfectly.

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices provides a flavorful base that pairs well with chimichangas.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy, spiced beans add protein and pair nicely with the crunchy texture of the chimichangas.
3. Corn Salad: A bright corn salad with lime juice offers freshness and acidity to balance the rich flavors.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies bring color and nutrients while enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an easy appetizer before diving into the main dish.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and spices brings sweet and savory notes to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Not draining the beef properly: Failing to drain excess grease from the cooked beef can make your chimichangas soggy. Ensure you drain the meat well before mixing in other ingredients.

• Overstuffing the tortillas: Adding too much filling can cause the chimichangas to burst while frying. Use a moderate amount of filling to keep them intact and crispy.

• Skipping oil temperature checks: Frying in oil that isn’t hot enough will lead to greasy chimichangas. Always heat the oil until it reaches a medium-high temperature before adding your chimichangas.

• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas are more likely to crack when rolling. Warm them in the microwave before filling to make them pliable and easy to roll.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your filling mixture can result in bland chimichangas. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your taste before assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Beef and Cheese Chimichangas in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

• Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chimichangas on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat one chimichanga at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes. This method may result in less crispiness.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, reheat chimichangas for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the chimichangas just before frying for the best texture.

What is the best way to serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?

Serve these delicious chimichangas with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side for added flavor!

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef if you prefer a lighter option while maintaining great flavor.

How do I customize my Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?

Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or different types of cheese according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are not only crispy and flavorful but also versatile for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite fillings or toppings. Enjoy making this delightful dish!