If you love bold flavors, crispy textures, and gooey cheese, Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a must-try. Deep-fried to golden perfection, stuffed with savory seasoned beef, melted cheese, and a touch of spices, chimichangas are a Tex-Mex classic that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or game-day snacks.
This guide will show you how to make restaurant-quality chimichangas at home, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
What Are Chimichangas?
Chimichangas are essentially deep-fried burritos. While the burrito is soft and baked or warmed, a chimichanga is crispy on the outside while keeping the filling warm, gooey, and flavorful inside.
Beef and cheese chimichangas are a favorite because they combine hearty ground beef, melted cheese, and spices into a portable, indulgent package.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
¼ cup tomato sauce or salsa (optional, for extra moisture)
For the Chimichangas:
4–6 large flour tortillas
Vegetable oil for frying
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
Add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add tomato sauce or salsa, if using, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Stir in shredded cheese while warm so it starts to melt.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
Place ½ cup of the beef and cheese filling in the center.
Fold the sides over, then roll tightly from one edge to the other.
Ensure the ends are tucked in to prevent filling from leaking.
Step 3: Fry or Bake
Option 1: Deep Frying
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chimichangas 2–3 at a time for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on paper towels.
Option 2: Baking (Healthier Option)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place chimichangas on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush lightly with oil and bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Step 4: Serve
Top with your favorite extras:
Sour cream
Guacamole
Salsa
Shredded lettuce
Fresh cilantro
For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit of enchilada sauce or hot sauce.
Tips for Perfect Chimichangas
Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause them to burst while cooking.
Seal edges well: Use a bit of water or beaten egg to help seal the tortilla.
Cheese choice matters: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend works best for gooey filling.
Keep oil at the right temperature: Too hot burns the tortilla; too low makes it greasy.
Variations
Spicy Beef and Cheese: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
Beef and Bean: Include black beans for a hearty twist.
Chicken or Pork Chimichangas: Substitute shredded chicken or pulled pork for beef.
Cheese Lover’s Chimichanga: Add extra cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for gooier indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with Mexican rice and refried beans for a full meal.
Pair with fresh pico de gallo and lime wedges for brightness.
For a lighter option, bake instead of frying and serve with a crisp side salad.
Conclusion
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor. Whether deep-fried for indulgence or baked for a healthier alternative, they’re perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or satisfying a craving for Tex-Mex comfort food.
With seasoned beef, melted cheese, and a perfectly golden tortilla, every bite delivers a mix of textures and bold flavors that are hard to resist. 🌮🧀🔥