Baked Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Golden, cheesy, and packed with flavor — a crispy oven-baked Tex-Mex favorite!
🌯✨🔥
If you’re craving that irresistible crunch of a fried chimichanga but want a lighter, easier way to enjoy it at home, this baked beef and cheese chimichanga recipe is for you! Filled with seasoned beef, melty cheese, and wrapped in golden, crispy tortillas, these chimichangas are perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or game day eats.
📝 Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
For the Chimichangas:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas
- ¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil (for brushing)
For Serving:
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Chopped fresh cilantro
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns.
Add in the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
Drain any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then let it simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
2️⃣ Assemble the Chimichangas
Lay a tortilla on a clean surface. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center.
Top generously with the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Fold in the sides, then roll up tightly like a burrito, keeping everything snug inside.
3️⃣ Bake Until Crispy
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the rolled chimichangas seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush each one with melted butter or lightly coat with vegetable oil to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
4️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Let them cool for a few minutes out of the oven.
Serve warm, topped with sour cream, salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that finishing touch.
⏱ Quick Look
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 350 per chimichanga
- Servings: 6
Tips & Add-Ins
- Add a handful of black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture.
- Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Love it spicy? Toss in a few diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce inside!
These baked chimichangas are crispy, cheesy, and downright addictive — no deep fryer needed! Serve them up with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a zesty corn salad for a complete Tex-Mex fiesta on your plate.
