Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
I’m so excited to share my Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas with you! Honestly, this dish has become a staple in my house. I mean, who doesn’t love a warm, crispy tortilla stuffed with perfectly seasoned ground beef and a melting layer of cheese? It’s comfort food at its finest, and I can’t wait to guide you through making these delicious bites. Let’s get started!
What Are Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas?
Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas are a delightful Mexican-American dish that features flour tortillas filled with seasoned beef and cheese, then deep-fried until golden brown. This fabulous dish offers a satisfying crunch that gives way to a gooey, cheesy filling. Whether served with salsa or guacamole, chimichangas are a favorite among both kids and adults alike. You’ll find them perfect for parties, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.
Ingredients Overview for Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
To create these crispy delights, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather for the feast:
- Ground Beef: The heart of your filling! Use lean beef for a healthier option.
- Cheddar Cheese: Use shredded for that melty, gooey goodness. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack for extra creaminess!
- Flour Tortillas: Grab the large ones to hold all that goodness. Corn tortillas work if you’re avoiding gluten.
- Onion: Diced finely to add sweetness to the beef mixture.
- Garlic: Minced for flavor. Fresh is best, but garlic powder works too.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and salt to give your filling a tasty kick.
- Oil: For frying. Vegetable or canola oil works great here.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
Ready to bring your kitchen to life? Here’s how you make these mouthwatering chimichangas:
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Season It Up: Stir in chili powder, cumin, and salt. Mix well to coat the beef and cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in half of the shredded cheese until melted and combined.
- Assemble the Chimichangas: Lay a tortilla flat, spoon some of the beef mixture into the center, and sprinkle with extra cheese. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Repeat until all the filling is used.
- Fry ‘Em Up: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Fry the chimichangas in batches, turning until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Enjoy every crispy bite!
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas are delightful on their own, but they are even better with fresh toppings. Try serving them with a side of refried beans and rice for a complete meal. You can also add a refreshing salad or some guacamole to balance the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle cilantro lime dressing on top for a fresh twist!
Tips for the Perfect Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
- Don’t Overfill: Resist the urge to add too much filling. A little goes a long way, and snug wrapping helps prevent them from bursting during frying.
- Use Medium Heat: Frying at too high of a temperature can lead to burnt outsides with cold insides. Medium heat is key here.
- Leftover Filling: If you have leftover filling, use it as a taco topping or for a burrito bowl during the week.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chimichangas ahead of time, freeze them before frying, and cook them directly from frozen whenever you want a delicious meal.
Q&A Section
1. Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Brush them with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until golden, about 25-30 minutes.
2. What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetables can be excellent substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter option.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for best crispy results.
4. Can I make these vegetarian?
You bet! Substitute the beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a scrumptious vegetarian version.
Why You’ll Love It
You will adore Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for their comforting nature and incredible crunch. Each bite is a combination of crispy tortillas, warm beef, and melted cheese that just melds so well together. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, these chimichangas are bound to become a favorite in your home too!
Behind The Scenes
Developing this recipe was such a fun journey! I tried a few different fillings, playing with spices, and you wouldn’t believe some of the epic fails I had with overstuffed tortillas bursting open! But each mishap led me to create the perfect balance of flavors. I’m thrilled with the results. Plus, if you’re interested in more tasty recipes, check out my Pinterest page at MyRecipeCast. I’m always pinning drool-worthy dishes you’ll love!
Crispy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Mexican-American dish of flour tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef and cheese, deep-fried until golden brown.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, and salt, cooking until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in half of the shredded cheese until melted and combined.
- Lay a tortilla flat, spoon some beef mixture into the center, and sprinkle with extra cheese. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Repeat until all filling is used.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Fry the chimichangas in batches, turning until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Enjoy!
Notes
Don’t overfill the chimichangas to prevent bursting during frying. For a healthier option, you can bake them instead of frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg