If you love bold flavors, crispy tortillas, and gooey melted cheese, Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a must-try comfort food. These golden, deep-fried (or baked) burritos are packed with seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, then crisped to perfection for that satisfying crunch.
Popular in Tex-Mex cuisine across the United States and increasingly enjoyed in the United Kingdom and Canada, chimichangas are perfect for family dinners, game nights, or festive gatherings.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas step by step, along with practical tips and delicious variations.
What Are Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
A chimichanga is essentially a burrito that has been fried until crispy. While traditional burritos are soft, chimichangas offer a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling inside.
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas typically include:
Seasoned ground beef
Melted cheese
Flour tortillas
Optional beans, rice, or salsa
They’re commonly served with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for dipping.
Why Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Are So Popular
1. Crispy Outside, Cheesy Inside
The combination of crunchy tortilla and creamy filling makes them incredibly satisfying.
2. Family-Friendly Flavor
Ground beef seasoned with classic Mexican-inspired spices is universally loved.
3. Versatile Cooking Options
You can:
Deep fry
Pan fry
Bake
Air fry
This flexibility makes them suitable for any kitchen setup.
Ingredients for Classic Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Filling:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
For Assembly:
6–8 large flour tortillas
Oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking/air frying)
Optional Add-Ins:
Refried beans
Cooked rice
Diced green chilies
Jalapeños
How to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Drain excess fat.
Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened.
Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 2–3 more minutes.
Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding cheese.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable.
Spoon beef mixture into the center.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
Fold in the sides, then roll tightly like a burrito.
Make sure they’re sealed well to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method
🔥 Deep Fry (Traditional Method)
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chimichangas seam-side down for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
🧑🍳 Pan Fry
Add a shallow layer of oil in a skillet.
Cook each side until crispy and golden.
🥘 Bake (Healthier Option)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Brush or spray chimichangas with oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
🌬️ Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray with oil.
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Best Cheese for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
For maximum melt and flavor:
Cheddar
Monterey Jack
Mexican cheese blend
Pepper Jack (for spice)
A blend of cheeses often gives the best creamy texture.
Practical Tips for Perfect Chimichangas
1. Don’t Overfill
Too much filling makes rolling difficult and may cause bursting.
2. Seal Tightly
Place seam-side down first when frying to help seal.
3. Use Fresh Tortillas
Stale tortillas crack easily.
4. Let Filling Cool Slightly
Hot filling can make tortillas soggy.
5. Keep Warm in Oven
If making a large batch, keep finished chimichangas warm at 200°F (95°C).
Delicious Variations
1. Spicy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
2. Loaded Chimichangas
Top with:
Enchilada sauce
Extra cheese
Sour cream
Fresh cilantro
3. Beef & Bean Chimichangas
Mix refried beans with beef for added texture and heartiness.
4. Breakfast Chimichangas
Use scrambled eggs, beef, and cheese for a brunch twist.
What to Serve with Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Pair your chimichangas with:
Mexican rice
Refried beans
Fresh salsa
Guacamole
Corn salad
For gatherings in the US, UK, or Canada, serve buffet-style so guests can customize toppings.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For best crispiness:
Reheat in oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes
Avoid microwaving if possible (it softens the tortilla)
Nutritional Overview
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are indulgent but provide:
Protein from beef
Calcium from cheese
Energy from carbohydrates
To lighten the dish:
Bake instead of fry
Use lean ground beef
Add vegetables to filling
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Frying at too low temperature (results in greasy chimichangas)
Not draining beef properly
Overcrowding the pan
Skipping oil spray when baking
Attention to detail ensures crispy, flavorful results every time.
Conclusion
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the ultimate crispy comfort food — packed with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and wrapped in a golden tortilla shell. Whether you deep fry for authenticity or bake for a lighter option, they deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture.
Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, this Tex-Mex favorite continues to win hearts across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
Once you make homemade Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, you may never go back to store-bought again. 🌯✨