Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a hearty meal. Packed with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and wrapped in golden tortillas, they’re baked to perfection for a healthier twist on the classic fried version. Serve them with sour cream, salsa, and cilantro for a delicious Tex-Mex experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy & Cheesy: Golden-baked tortillas encase a savory beef filling and melty cheese blend.
• Customizable: Add jalapeños, beans, or rice to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Baked Not Fried: A lighter alternative to traditional chimichangas without sacrificing crunch.

 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup onion , finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 6 large flour tortillas
• ¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil (for brushing )

For Serving:

• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Chopped cilantro

 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling 🍳

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef , breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic , cooking until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and water , mixing well. Simmer for 5 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas 🌯

1. Place a large flour tortilla on a clean surface.
2. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center of the tortilla.
3. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef filling.
4. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly to fully enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 3: Bake the Chimichangas 🔥

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper .
2. Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Brush each chimichanga lightly with melted butter or vegetable oil to ensure a crispy, golden exterior.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish 🍴

1. Remove the chimichangas from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve warm, topped with sour cream , salsa , and chopped cilantro for added freshness and flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Add Heat: Mix diced jalapeños into the beef filling or serve with spicy salsa for an extra kick.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the chimichangas ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
• Freeze Option: Freeze unbaked chimichangas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Frying Option: For a crispier, more traditional chimichanga, fry them in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes per side , or until golden brown.

Nutritional Information (per chimichanga, serves 6):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Fat: ~25g

Enjoy these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas as a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to customize and fun to serve. Their crispy exterior, cheesy interior, and bold flavors make them a perfect choice for family dinners, game nights, or festive gatherings. Pair them with your favorite toppings and dig in!