Imagine a crispy, golden-brown chimichanga bursting with savory beef and gooey cheese. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water as you anticipate that first crunchy bite. Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are not just a dish; they’re a fiesta for your taste buds.
These delightful bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just craving comfort food after a long day. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be dreaming of chimichangas every week!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These crispy beef and cheese chimichangas are easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights
- The flavor explosion will have everyone asking for seconds
- Their golden appearance is sure to impress guests at any gathering
- Perfect for customizing with your favorite fillings, they cater to everyone’s tastes
I remember the first time I made chimichangas; my friends were skeptical until they took that first bite. The smiles on their faces said it all—these crispy treats were an instant hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease while keeping the flavor rich.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar gives the ideal melty texture and flavor.
Taco Seasoning: Use store-bought or homemade seasoning to give a zesty kick to your filling.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best as they hold up well when frying and add a nice chew.
Cooking Oil: Choose canola or vegetable oil for frying; it has a high smoke point ideal for crispy results.
Optional Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa can elevate your chimichangas to new heights of deliciousness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter for easy access during cooking.
Cook the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning with water according to package instructions.
Add Cheese and Chill Filling**: Once seasoned, mix in half of the shredded cheese. Allow the filling to cool slightly—it helps prevent soggy tortillas.
Assemble the Chimichangas**: Place about 1/4 cup of beef filling onto each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll tightly like a burrito.
Fry Until Golden**: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place chimichangas seam side down into hot oil; fry until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes).
Drain and Serve**: Remove from oil and let drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while still hot and serve with your favorite toppings!
With these simple steps, you’ll create crispy beef and cheese chimichangas that will have everyone coming back for more! Enjoy every crunchy bite!
You Must Know
- This crispy beef and cheese chimichangas recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties and family dinners
- The crunchiness paired with the savory filling creates an irresistible bite
- Don’t forget to serve them with salsa or guacamole for an extra flavor kick!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef, then mix in cheese and spices before rolling. Fry until golden for that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers. Spice lovers can include jalapeños or hot sauce.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to restore that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For crispy chimichangas, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying
- Avoid overfilling to prevent breakage
- Use fresh tortillas for better flavor and texture; they hold up much better
Memories of family game nights flood back whenever I make these chimichangas; laughter and crunching fill the air, making it a highlight of every gathering.
FAQ
How do I keep my chimichangas from getting soggy?
Use a hot oil temperature and avoid overfilling each tortilla to maintain crispiness.
Can I bake crispy beef and cheese chimichangas instead of frying?
Yes, brush them with oil and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
What type of cheese works best for chimichangas?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are ideal for their melting qualities and flavor balance.
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Experience a flavor fiesta with these crispy beef and cheese chimichangas! Golden-brown on the outside and filled with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty taco seasoning, these delightful bites are perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Simple to prepare yet impressive enough to wow your guests, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooking oil (canola or vegetable)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa
Instructions
- Cook the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning with water according to package instructions.
- Add Cheese: Mix half of the shredded cheese into the beef filling and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble Chimichangas: Place about 1/4 cup of the filling onto each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll tightly like a burrito.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add chimichangas seam side down and fry until golden brown on all sides, approximately 5 minutes.
- Drain and Serve: Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while hot and serve with your favorite toppings!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
