Beef and Cheese Chimichangas (Crispy, Cheesy, Irresistible!)
Golden, crispy tortillas stuffed with savory beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of salsa — these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food!
Whether you’re craving a festive Mexican-inspired dinner or a handheld snack that hits all the right notes, this recipe brings bold flavors and satisfying crunch to your table.
Get ready for some serious fried goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup salsa
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Sour cream, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and salsa.
- Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring to combine all the flavors.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Chimichangas
- Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface.
- Spoon an equal amount of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, tucking the ends to secure the filling inside.
3. Fry the Chimichangas
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the oil.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Serve
- Serve the chimichangas hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
- Optional: Add extra salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce on the side for dipping!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: ~480 kcal per chimichanga
Pro Tips for the Best Chimichangas
- Don’t overfill! Overstuffed chimichangas can split open during frying.
- Seal tightly: Make sure the tortillas are rolled tightly with the seam down in the oil for best results.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for even frying and avoid greasy chimichangas.
- Air Fryer Option: Lightly brush chimichangas with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
- Mexican Rice and Refried Beans are classic sides.
- Serve with a fresh salsa verde or pico de gallo for extra brightness.
- Add a simple guacamole or avocado slices to balance the rich flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake chimichangas instead of frying?
Yes! Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Wrap each cooked chimichanga individually in foil and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas = Deep-Fried Perfection!
Crunchy on the outside, cheesy and savory on the inside — these chimichangas will make your next dinner feel like a fiesta.
Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the crispiest, cheesiest chimichangas ever!
