The aroma of crispy beef and cheese chimichangas fills the air, teasing your senses with its savory promise. Picture biting into a golden, crunchy shell that gives way to a warm, cheesy filling bursting with flavor. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that wraps you in comfort.
Every bite reminds me of family gatherings where laughter echoed around the table. The chimichangas were always the star dish, disappearing faster than you could say “delicious.” Perfect for game nights or cozy weekends, they bring everyone together and make taste buds dance with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy beef and cheese chimichangas are a breeze to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory beef and creamy cheese, creating a satisfying bite every time
- Visually appealing with their golden-brown exterior, they make any meal feel special
- Versatile enough for appetizers or main dishes, you can easily customize fillings based on what you have on hand
I remember the first time I made these for my friends; their faces lit up as they took that first crunchy bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy filling without excess grease, making it healthier.
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Shredded Cheese: Opt for a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that gooey texture.
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Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best; they’re pliable and can hold all the delicious fillings.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish’s aromatic profile significantly.
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Spices: Cumin and chili powder provide warmth and depth to your beef filling.
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Oil: For frying; choose vegetable oil for a high smoke point to achieve that perfect crispiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add chopped onions and garlic; stir until fragrant and onions soften.
Season to Perfection: Sprinkle in cumin and chili powder; stir well to blend flavors. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything mingles beautifully.
Assemble the Chimichangas: Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Top generously with shredded cheese before folding them like burritos.
Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, pour vegetable oil to about 1 inch deep. Heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place chimichangas into hot oil seam-side down. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve!: Remove chimichangas from oil using tongs; let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with salsa or guacamole on the side.
Enjoy your crispy beef and cheese chimichangas! These crunchy delights are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or cozy night in!
You Must Know
- Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful blend of flavors and textures
- Ensure you use fresh ingredients for the best taste
- The crunchiness of the fried tortilla combined with gooey cheese creates an irresistible bite, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef with spices, then assemble your chimichangas before frying them to golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for chicken or add black beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for a crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease while still getting that robust flavor
- Always seal your chimichangas tightly to prevent filling leakage during frying
- Fry in small batches to achieve that perfect crispy texture without overcrowding your pan
Sharing my first attempt at making these crispy delights was a hilarious disaster, but everyone loved them anyway!
FAQ
How can I make my chimichangas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for added heat.
Can I bake my chimichangas instead of frying?
Yes, brush them with oil and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes until crispy.
What dipping sauces pair well with chimichangas?
Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa all complement these crispy beef and cheese chimichangas perfectly!
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food, offering a delightful crunch paired with a warm, cheesy filling. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, these chimichangas come together quickly and are sure to impress. With a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and crispy tortilla shells, each bite is an explosion of flavor. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces for a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until onions soften.
- Stir in cumin and chili powder; cook for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture on each tortilla, top with cheese, and fold like burritos.
- In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil until shimmering. Carefully fry chimichangas seam-side down for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with salsa or guacamole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (150g)
- Calories: 404
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
