Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Who doesn’t love a crispy and cheesy chimichanga? This Beef and Cheese Chimichanga recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser that will satisfy your Mexican food cravings in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can refried beans
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 large flour tortillas
Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa

Instructions:

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add onions and garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
Stir in taco seasoning and refried beans, heating until warmed through.
On each tortilla, spoon a generous portion of the beef mixture and top with cheese. Roll up the tortilla, tucking in the sides to create a seal.
In a separate skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on all sides.
Remove chimichangas from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 480
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 22g

Helpful Tips:

If you prefer a crispier chimichanga, you can bake them in the oven instead of frying.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Add diced green chilies or jalapenos to the beef mixture for an extra kick of spice.
Serve with a side of Mexican rice and beans for a complete meal.
You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives.
For a healthier option, use whole wheat tortillas and low-fat cheese.
Make a big batch and freeze the chimichangas for an easy heat-and-eat meal later on.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added freshness.
Get creative with your toppings – try pickled onions, pico de gallo, or sliced avocado.
Don’t forget the margaritas or Mexican beer to complete the fiesta!

Expert Secrets:

To ensure a crispy exterior, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chimichangas.
For a smokier flavor, grill the chimichangas instead of frying them.
For a gooey cheese pull, use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Add a dollop of cream cheese to the beef mixture for added creaminess.
Make a batch of homemade salsa to serve alongside the chimichangas.
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Use a cast-iron skillet for frying for even heat distribution.
Don’t skimp on the cheese – the more, the better!
For an extra crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top before serving.
Play around with different seasonings to customize the flavor profile to your liking.