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Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
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Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a bold, satisfying meal featuring seasoned ground beef and melted cheese wrapped in a golden, crispy tortilla. Perfectly crunchy on the outside with gooey, flavorful filling inside, these chimichangas are great for family dinners, meal prep, and leftovers. Easily customizable in spice and ingredients, they offer a comforting taste of southwestern-inspired cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Assembly

  • 6 large flour tortillas
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)

For Cooking

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to deep fry)

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil and sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up chunks with a spoon. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  2. Assemble the Chimichangas: Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto the center, then sprinkle a hearty layer of shredded cheese over the top. Fold in the sides and roll the tortilla tightly to keep the filling inside.
  3. Chill Before Frying: Place each chimichanga seam-side down on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to help seal the tortillas and prevent opening during cooking.
  4. Fry to Crisp Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower each chimichanga into the hot oil and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  5. Serve Hot and Enjoy: Serve immediately with optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, and chopped cilantro to balance the savory and crispy flavors.

Notes

  • Do not overfill to avoid bursting during frying.
  • Use room temperature filling to prevent soggy tortillas.
  • Seal edges well using water or beaten egg for stronger hold.
  • Maintain consistent oil temperature for even crispiness.
  • Let chimichangas rest briefly after frying to avoid burns and help cheese set.

Nutrition

Keywords: chimichangas, crispy beef chimichangas, beef and cheese chimichangas, fried chimichangas, mexican appetizers, comfort food

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/crispy-beef-and-cheese-chimichangas/