Delicious aromas waft through the kitchen as golden, crispy chimichangas emerge from the oven, tantalizing your senses. These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melty cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla, taking about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. They work beautifully for any casual dinner with family or friends, offering a satisfying crunch and hearty filling.
This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a comforting, flavorful meal. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. You can make the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The chimichangas deliver a satisfying crunch when you bite into them.
- They are quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish.
- You can easily customize the fillings with your favorite ingredients.
- They can be baked for a healthier option or fried for extra crispiness.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious chimichangas.
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade)
- ½ cup salsa
For Assembly
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 6 large flour tortillas, burrito-size
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, for brushing/frying
Use homemade taco seasoning for a flavor boost.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
- Any preferred cheese can be used.
- Corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
- Black beans instead of refried beans.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to assemble and cook your chimichangas.
Cook the beef filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until well combined.
Assemble the chimichangas
Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
Cook the chimichangas
Oven method (healthier): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
Skillet method (crispier): Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place chimichangas seam-side down and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Serve
Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Add toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chimichangas are tightly rolled to prevent leaking filling.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using homemade taco seasoning.
- For extra crispiness, double-fry the chimichangas lightly after baking.
- Let the filling cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Serve with side dishes like rice or chips for a fiesta night.
- Great for game day gatherings or casual parties.
