Craving Something Extra? These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Deliver Big Flavor—Try Them Now! 🌯💥
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas : are you looking for a dish that packs a punch in both flavor and satisfaction? Look no further than these delicious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas! They are crispy, cheesy, and filled with savory ground beef that is sure to please anyone at your table. Whether you are entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these chimichangas will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it brings the irresistible combination of beef and cheese together, creating a filling that is both hearty and enjoyable. Second, the crispy exterior adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft and flavorful filling. Plus, making chimichangas at home allows you the freedom to customize them to your liking, so you can add spices or toppings that suit your palate.
Cheesy goodness and seasoned beef come together in a way that creates a memorable meal. These chimichangas are also perfect for busy weeknights. You can assemble them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven or fryer when you’re ready to eat. They are also great for meal prepping and can be stored easily. There’s plenty to love about this recipe—so let’s get started!
How to prepare Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Preparing Beef and Cheese Chimichangas is surprisingly simple. With just a few steps, you’ll have a tasty dish ready for your family or guests. Here’s what you need to know before diving in!
Ingredients:
- Flour tortillas: 6 large
- Ground beef: 1 lb
- Water (for beef): 1 cup
- Onion: 1 small (chopped)
- Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup (shredded)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, jalapeños, guacamole
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it down with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink.
- Season the Beef: After the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease. Return the skillet to the heat and add 1 cup of water, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the liquid reduces and thickens. Once done, remove it from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Prepare the Tortillas: While the filling cools, warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll.
- Assemble the Chimichangas: Take a tortilla and place a portion of the beef and cheese filling in the center. Fold in the sides and roll it tightly from the bottom up. Pinch the ends to secure the filling inside. Repeat until all the tortillas are filled.
- Cook the Chimichangas: There are a couple of ways to cook the chimichangas. You can either deep fry them for extra crispy texture or bake them for a healthier option. To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chimichangas on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once they are cooked, remove the chimichangas from the oven or fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
How to serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas can be served in various ways to enhance their deliciousness. You can plate them with a generous dollop of sour cream or a splash of spicy salsa on the side. Adding sliced jalapeños can give an extra kick for those who enjoy a bit more heat. You can also serve them with fresh guacamole or a side salad for a complete meal.
For gatherings, consider making a chimichanga platter with different toppings. Lay out bowls of salsa, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese, allowing guests to customize their chimichangas as they like. It makes for a fun and interactive dining experience!
How to store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
If you happen to have leftovers, storing Beef and Cheese Chimichangas is easy. Allow them to cool completely to room temperature. You can store cooked chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the cooled chimichangas tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, if they are frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If they’re in the fridge, simply reheat them in the oven, air fryer, or microwave.
Preparation tips for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Choose Your Tortillas Wisely: While traditional chimichangas use flour tortillas, you can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. However, corn tortillas are more fragile, so be extra careful when filling and rolling them.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling based on your taste preferences. You could add black beans, corn, or even shredded chicken instead of ground beef. The options are endless!
- Chill the Filling: Let the beef filling cool for a bit before assembling the chimichangas. This makes it easier to handle and helps prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
Variation
If you want to try something a bit different, consider making Spicy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas. You can add diced green chilies, or jalapeños to the filling mixture for an extra kick. Another variation is to swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese, which adds a nice spicy flavor.
Thinking of a vegetarian option? Try swapping the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You will still get the same delicious crispy texture with a lighter filling.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chimichangas in advance, follow the assembly instructions, and then either refrigerate them for baking later or freeze them for future meals.
2. What is the best way to reheat leftover chimichangas?
The best way to reheat chimichangas is to place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they are heated through. This way, they will stay crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheating option.
3. Are chimichangas traditionally fried or baked?
Chimichangas are traditionally deep-fried, which gives them a crispy and golden exterior. However, you can bake them in the oven as a healthier alternative, and they will still taste great.
4. Can I freeze uncooked chimichangas?
Yes! You can assemble the chimichangas and freeze them before cooking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Now that you know everything about making Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, it’s time to get cooking! With their amazing flavors and satisfying crunch, these chimichangas will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
