Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a cold day—crunchy on the outside, melty on the inside, and packed with flavors that transport you straight to a festive fiesta! Imagine biting into this golden delight, where seasoned beef meets gooey cheese, all wrapped snugly in a crisp tortilla. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing everyone’s taste buds and prompting them to ask if they can “help” with dinner. Spoiler alert: they’re just here for the chimichangas!
Now, if you’ve ever had one of those days where you wonder if cooking is really worth it, let me tell you, this recipe is your new best friend. It’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. Picture a cozy family night or an epic game day gathering where these crispy bites steal the show. Trust me; once you make these Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, your friends will think you’ve secretly been attending culinary school! For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners
- Their bold flavor profile combines savory beef and melted cheese for an irresistible taste
- The golden-brown tortillas add visual appeal that’ll impress any guest at your table
- They’re versatile enough to be served as appetizers or main dishes, fitting any occasion perfectly!
Ingredients for Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for that delightful crunch when fried.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds a rich, creamy texture to the filling.
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Onion: Finely chopped onion enhances the filling’s flavor profile with sweetness.
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Garlic Powder: This seasoning packs a punch and elevates the overall taste of the chimichangas.
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Cumin: A dash of cumin brings warmth and depth to your beef mixture.
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Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying until crispy; choose oil with a high smoke point.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain excess fat and return it to the skillet.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Stir in chopped onions, garlic powder, and cumin. Cook until onions are translucent and fragrant—about five minutes should do it.
Step 3: Mix in Cheese
Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts slightly into the meat mixture. This cheesy goodness is what dreams are made of!
Step 4: Fill and Roll
Take a tortilla and spoon about two tablespoons of filling onto its center. Fold in sides like you’re tucking in a burrito baby, then roll tightly.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
In another skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place chimichangas seam-side down into hot oil. Fry until golden brown on all sides—approximately three minutes per side.
Step 6: Drain Excess Oil
Once crispy perfection is achieved, transfer them onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
Now all that’s left is to serve these beauties! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sour cream or salsa for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of those glorious Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas while basking in the glory of being an absolute culinary rockstar!
You Must Know
- Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine
- Stuffed with flavorful beef and gooey cheese, they offer an irresistible crunch
- Perfect for family dinners or parties, these chimichangas will leave everyone wanting more!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect crispy beef and cheese chimichangas, start by browning your seasoned beef in a skillet. While that sizzles, prepare your tortillas with cheese. Then assemble and fry them for that golden crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative with your crispy beef and cheese chimichangas. Swap ground beef for shredded chicken or add black beans for a hearty twist. Spice it up with jalapeños or fresh cilantro to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crispy beef and cheese chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until hot and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease; this keeps your chimichangas crispy
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent any filling from escaping during frying
- Fry in small batches for even cooking and perfect crispiness
Sometimes I still remember that one dinner party when my friends devoured these chimichangas faster than I could serve them! The laughter and compliments made all the cooking worth it.
FAQs :
What are Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are deep-fried burritos filled with seasoned beef, cheese, and sometimes additional ingredients like beans or vegetables. These delicious treats are wrapped in a tortilla, then fried until golden brown and crispy. They make for a satisfying meal or snack, offering a rich combination of flavors. You can enjoy them with various toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
How do I make Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
To make Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, start by cooking ground beef with onions and spices. Once cooked, mix in cheese until melted. Spoon this filling onto tortillas, roll them tightly, and seal the edges. Fry the chimichangas in hot oil until they turn a beautiful golden color. Serve them warm with your favorite condiments for an irresistible experience.
Can I bake Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After assembling the chimichangas, brush them lightly with oil to help achieve a crispy texture. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown. This method reduces the fat content while still delivering great flavor.
What sides pair well with Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them alongside Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. Fresh guacamole adds creaminess while salsa provides zest. A simple side salad with lime dressing can lighten the meal, balancing the richness of the chimichangas perfectly.
Conclusion for Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas :
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas offer a delightful combination of crunchy texture and savory flavors that everyone loves. Preparing these tasty treats involves filling tortillas with seasoned beef and cheese before frying them to perfection. You can also opt for baking them for a healthier twist without sacrificing taste. Whether served as a main dish or snack, these chimichangas promise satisfaction in every bite. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite dips and sides for an unforgettable meal! For more inspiration, check out this delicious main dish recipes recipe.
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy tortillas with a savory filling of seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings, these golden delights are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Serve them hot with your favorite dips for an irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and return to skillet.
- Stir in chopped onion, garlic powder, and cumin; cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese until slightly melted.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto each tortilla's center. Fold sides inward and roll tightly.
- Heat vegetable oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chimichangas seam-side down until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil before serving. Enjoy with sour cream or salsa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga (130g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: - Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or add black beans for variation. - For a healthier option, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), brush chimichangas lightly with oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes.