Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the heavenly experience that is biting into a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga! The moment you sink your teeth into that crispy, golden exterior, you’re met with the warm, cheesy goodness that just melts in your mouth. It takes me right back to family gatherings where we’d whip these up together, laughing and chatting while the delicious aroma filled the kitchen. Trust me, there’s something magical about the perfect combination of seasoned beef and gooey cheese wrapped snugly in a tortilla. It’s comfort food at its finest, and I just can’t get enough!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef: The star of the show, seasoned to perfection for that rich flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that melty goodness.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Make sure they’re big enough to hold all that delicious filling!
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, savory base to the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because who doesn’t love the aroma of fresh garlic cooking?
- 1 tsp cumin: This spice gives the chimichangas that warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Just the right kick to elevate the beef mixture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Oil for frying: Use a good amount to get those chimichangas nice and crispy!
How to Prepare Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Alright, let’s dive into making these scrumptious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas! It’s really a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll be feeling like a culinary rockstar in no time. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, heat up a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5–7 minutes. You’ll want to break it apart with a spatula so it cooks evenly.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture until the onion turns soft and translucent, which should take about 3–4 minutes. The smell is just heavenly!
- Now, stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens! Let it cook for another minute so the spices can bloom and infuse the beef.
- Remove your skillet from the heat and mix in that glorious shredded cheese. The warmth from the beef will help melt the cheese and bring everything together perfectly.
- Take a large tortilla and place a generous portion of the beef mixture in the center. Fold the sides over and then roll it up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat this for all tortillas.
- In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat until it’s shimmering—this is key for that golden crispiness!
- Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry them for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and irresistible.
- Once they’re done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil. This step is crucial for that perfect crunch!
And there you have it! Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are ready to be devoured!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just general estimates per serving. But hey, who’s counting when you’re enjoying such a delicious treat, right?
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
So, there you go! A delightful balance of flavors and nutrition. Just remember, enjoy in moderation and savor every bite of those heavenly chimichangas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese is simply irresistible.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch it up with different meats or add your favorite veggies!
- Crispy Texture: Frying gives them that perfect crunch you crave with every bite.
- Family-Friendly: These chimichangas are a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves them!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success
To really nail your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, I’ve got some handy tips that will make all the difference! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will have you feeling like a pro in the kitchen.
- Frying Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—around 350°F (175°C) is perfect. If it’s too cool, the chimichangas will absorb too much oil and become greasy. You want that crispy crunch!
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to stuff them to the brim, but too much filling can make it hard to roll them up tightly. Keep it to about 1/3 cup of filling per tortilla for the best results.
- Seal with a Little Water: To ensure the chimichangas stay rolled up while frying, dab a bit of water on the edges before folding. This helps seal the tortilla snugly!
- Experiment with Cheeses: While I love a classic cheddar and Monterey Jack combo, feel free to mix in pepper jack for a bit of heat or even some cream cheese for extra creaminess!
- Make it Meal Prep Friendly: You can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. Just make sure to cover them well so they don’t dry out.
- Drain Well: After frying, place the chimichangas on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to make the most mouthwatering Beef and Cheese Chimichangas ever! Happy cooking!
Variations on Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
One of the best things about Beef and Cheese Chimichangas is their versatility! You can easily switch things up to keep your taste buds excited. Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Chicken Chimichangas: Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken. It’s a lighter option that still packs a ton of flavor!
- Vegetarian Delight: Load them up with black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version. Don’t forget to add some cheese for that melty goodness!
- Spicy Twist: Mix in some diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage instead of beef for a kick that’ll warm you right up!
- Cheesy Mushroom: Substitute half of the beef with sautéed mushrooms for an earthier flavor profile. Pair it with a blend of Swiss and mozzarella cheese for a unique twist.
- BBQ Beef: For a fun barbecue flair, mix in some barbecue sauce with the ground beef. It’s sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature chimichangas. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to find your favorite combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftover Beef and Cheese Chimichangas (which is rare in my house!), storing them properly will keep that deliciousness intact for your next meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Cooling: First, let the chimichangas cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
- Storing: Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Trust me, you’ll want to savor those leftovers!
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chimichangas. Just wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months this way.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftover chimichangas, reheating properly is key to keeping them crispy:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chimichangas on a baking sheet and heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the exterior is crispy again. This method is my favorite for preserving that crunch!
- Microwave (For Quick Fix): If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them for about 1–2 minutes. Just know that they might not be as crispy as when they were freshly fried, but they’ll still be tasty!
So, there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas all over again. Happy munching!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, the right accompaniments can take your meal to the next level! Here are some delightful ideas that pair perfectly with these crispy delights:
- Salsa: A fresh, zesty salsa is a must! Whether you prefer classic tomato salsa, mango salsa for a sweet twist, or a spicy salsa verde, they all complement the flavors beautifully.
- Sour Cream: Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream! It adds a creamy richness that balances the heat and flavors of the chimichangas.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is another fantastic option. The avocado adds a luscious texture that pairs wonderfully with the crispy exterior.
- Mexican Rice: Serve your chimichangas alongside a side of fluffy Mexican rice. The flavors blend perfectly and make for a hearty meal!
- Refried Beans: A side of refried beans is always a great choice! They add a nice creaminess and are a staple in Mexican cuisine.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a lighter option, consider steaming some veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. They add color and freshness to your plate.
- Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob brushed with lime and chili powder is a fun, flavorful side that enhances the Mexican theme!
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create your perfect chimichanga meal. Enjoy every bite with your favorite accompaniments, and watch how they elevate this already delicious dish!
Print
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: None
Description
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are crispy, fried tortillas filled with seasoned beef and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in cheese.
- Place a portion of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold the sides and roll up the tortilla tightly.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chimichangas until golden brown on all sides.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Notes
- Serve with salsa and sour cream.
- Can add beans or peppers for extra flavor.
- Use shredded chicken or beans for a different filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, Mexican food, fried tortillas