Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas: A Crunchy Delight

Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to a savory filling of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and spices that dance on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air, beckoning anyone nearby to join in this delightful feast.

Now picture this: It’s Taco Tuesday at my house, and the kids are bouncing off the walls with excitement. I decide to surprise them with these crispy delights instead of our usual tacos. As they took their first bite, their faces lit up like Christmas morning! These chimichangas quickly became a family favorite, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

I still remember the first time I made Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty filling without excess grease.

• Shredded Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack adds creaminess and flavor.

• Tortillas: Flour tortillas hold the filling well; opt for larger ones for easier rolling.

• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder bring out amazing flavors in the meat.

• Oil: Vegetable oil is ideal for frying until crispy perfection is achieved.

• Sour Cream and Salsa: These toppings elevate your chimichangas with zesty freshness.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add spices and stir until fragrant.

Add the Cheese: Once the beef is cooked through, sprinkle shredded cheese into the skillet. Stir gently until it melts beautifully into the mixture.

Assemble the Chimichangas: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon some filling near one edge; fold over sides and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, pour vegetable oil to about two inches high and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place chimichangas seam-side down in hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn crispy and golden brown; don’t overcrowd the pan.

Drain and Serve: Remove fried chimichangas from oil using tongs or a slotted spoon; let them drain on paper towels. Serve hot with sour cream and salsa on the side.

Enjoying Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas can be an adventure filled with laughter, flavor explosions, and happy bellies!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To ensure crispy beef and cheese chimichangas, start by browning the beef with seasonings, then prepare the filling while the beef cools. Wrap and fry until golden brown for optimal texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or turkey. Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika to elevate your chimichangas!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover crispy beef and cheese chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Cooking these crispy beef and cheese chimichangas always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last one—it’s all love and deliciousness!

FAQ

What is the best oil for frying chimichangas?

Canola or vegetable oil works well due to high smoke points.

Can I bake crispy beef and cheese chimichangas instead of frying?

Yes, brush them with oil and bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes until golden.

How do I keep my chimichangas crispy after cooking?

Place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to allow air circulation.

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Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

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• Author: Rachel Cooper
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Makes 4 servings 1x

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Description

Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a golden, crunchy exterior that envelops a savory filling of seasoned beef and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these delightful wraps are guaranteed to impress with every bite. Easy to make and customizable, they bring a fiesta atmosphere to any table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• Sour cream and salsa (for serving)

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; add spices and stir until fragrant.
2. Mix in the shredded cheeses, stirring until melted.
3. Place a tortilla flat, spoon filling near one edge, fold sides, and roll tightly.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a pan until shimmering.
5. Fry chimichangas seam-side down for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown; avoid overcrowding.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with sour cream and salsa.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For variation, substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey. Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Brush chimichangas with oil and bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes if preferred over frying.