Description
Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas are a golden, crunchy, and cheesy Tex-Mex favorite filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty spices, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and fried to perfection. They’re an indulgent comfort food perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup salsa or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas (8-inch)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to season the beef.
- Add salsa or tomato sauce and stir to combine. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and mix until melted and incorporated.
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Place about 1/3 cup of beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up to form a burrito-style wrap.
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat (about 350°F / 175°C).
- Fry the chimichangas seam-side down until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
Notes
- For a healthier version, brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- You can use shredded chicken or pulled pork instead of beef.
- Add refried beans or rice inside for extra filling.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex