Irresistible Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas Recipe

Recipe By:
Ruth
Updated:

Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas are like little pockets of joy, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden-brown tortilla, only to be met with a savory explosion of seasoned beef and melty cheese. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your neighbors knocking at your door, begging for a bite.

I still remember the first time I tried making these delightful chimichangas. It was an overly ambitious Friday night, and my friends were convinced I could whip up anything. Spoiler alert: I did! We spent the evening munching on these crispy treats while sharing stories and laughter. Now, every family gathering or casual get-together finds its way back to this recipe, creating delicious memories one chimichanga at a time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas recipe is easy to follow and perfect for busy weeknights
  • The combination of spices creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love
  • These chimichangas are visually appealing, making them an excellent centerpiece for any gathering
  • They are versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or sides

Ingredients for Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor without excess grease.

  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives a wonderful tangy flavor that complements the beef perfectly.

  • Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for rolling and crisping up nicely; choose large sizes for easy wrapping.

  • Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for optimal flavor release.

  • Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the dish’s aroma; use fresh garlic cloves for the best results.

  • Spices (Cumin and Chili Powder): Essential for adding warmth and richness to the beef mixture; adjust amounts according to your spice preference.

  • Cooking Oil: Use vegetable or canola oil for frying; it has a high smoke point perfect for achieving that crispy exterior.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

How to Make Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

Start by preparing the beef filling. In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef along with chopped onions. Cook until the meat is browned and onions are tender, about five minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook until fragrant.

Next, assemble those tasty chimichangas! Lay out each tortilla on a clean surface. Spoon some of that delicious beef mixture onto each tortilla, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.

Now comes the fun part—folding! Carefully fold in the sides of each tortilla over the filling then roll tightly from the bottom up. Secure with toothpicks if needed to keep everything together during frying.

Heat cooking oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully place each rolled chimichanga seam side down into the oil, frying them for about three minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Once they’re gloriously crispy, transfer them onto paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving; trust me, you want to savor every bite without burning your tongue!

Finally, plate those gorgeous chimichangas with fresh salsa or guacamole on the side for dipping. Enjoy every mouthful as you reminisce about that first successful attempt at creating culinary magic!

You Must Know

  • Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas are not just a delicious treat; they also make for a fun and interactive meal
  • You can adapt the fillings based on your preferences, making them perfect for any occasion
  • They deliver a crunch that is simply irresistible!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To master Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas, start by browning the beef, then mix in spices and cheese. While the filling cools, prepare your tortillas and heat the oil. This sequence ensures perfect flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef with shredded chicken or beans for a vegetarian option. Add jalapeños for heat or experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco for a unique twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in an oven at 350°F until crispy again—no one likes a soggy chimichanga!

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To elevate your Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas, ensure you seal them tightly to avoid leaks during frying
  • Always preheat your oil properly before frying to achieve that golden crunch
  • Lastly, let them rest on paper towels after frying—nobody wants greasy fingers!

Sometimes I whip up Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas when friends come over and they rave about them! It’s always heartwarming to see everyone enjoying my cooking—it feels like I’m winning at life!

FAQs :

What are Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas?

Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas are deep-fried burritos filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese. They are wrapped tightly in flour tortillas, ensuring that the delicious filling stays put during cooking. This dish is popular in Mexican cuisine and offers a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining flavorful and cheesy on the inside.

How do I make Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas?

To make Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas, start by cooking ground beef with onions, garlic, and spices until browned. Drain any excess fat. Next, mix in shredded cheese and spoon the filling onto tortillas. Roll them up tightly and seal the edges. Finally, deep fry them until golden brown and crispy for a mouthwatering treat.

Can I bake Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas for a healthier alternative. Brush the chimichangas with oil before placing them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Baking still provides a satisfying crunch while reducing fat content compared to frying.

What can I serve with Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas?

Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas pair wonderfully with various side dishes such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. You can also serve them alongside rice and beans for a complete meal. Adding fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro enhances the overall flavor experience.

Conclusion for Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas :

Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas offer a delicious blend of flavors with their crunchy exterior and savory filling. By preparing them at home, you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these chimichangas are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack or as part of a hearty meal, paired with your favorite dips and sides for an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas are a mouthwatering Mexican dish featuring golden-brown tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, these chimichangas deliver a satisfying crunch and rich flavor in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are sure to become a favorite at your table.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Makes 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 2 cups cooking oil (vegetable or canola)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onions until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook until fragrant.
  2. Lay out each tortilla and spoon the beef mixture onto the center. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  3. Fold in the sides of the tortillas and roll tightly from the bottom up. Secure with toothpicks if desired.
  4. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Fry each chimichanga seam side down for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
  5. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (150g)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added heat, include sliced jalapeños in your filling. Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a twist. To bake instead of fry, brush chimichangas with oil and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.

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