Cheesy Crispy Beef Chimichangas: A Mouthwatering Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your Mexican dinner game with a mouthwatering dish that will make you forget all about takeout? Look no further than these irresistible Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas! These golden, crispy parcels of joy are filled with seasoned lean ground beef, savory onions, garlic, and a generous helping of sharp cheddar cheese. The combination of flavors and textures in these chimichangas will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

I first discovered the magic of these Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas when my family became utterly obsessed with them at our local Mexican restaurant. Determined to bring that same restaurant-quality flavor into my own kitchen, I embarked on a culinary adventure that resulted in a recipe that surpassed all expectations. Now, not only do we get to enjoy these delectable chimichangas whenever the craving strikes, but we also revel in the fact that we can customize the filling to our liking, ensuring each bite is pure perfection.

Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a cozy night in, these Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are guaranteed to hit the spot. Serve them alongside some Spanish rice, beans, and all the classic fixings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a true fiesta on your plate. With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll have a batch of these homemade chimichangas that will rival any restaurant version. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to a new family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Quick Benefits

• Cost-effective: Making these chimichangas at home provides more filling for your money compared to ordering takeout.
• Customizable: You can control the amount of cheese and seasoning, and easily customize with different proteins, cheeses, or added ingredients like jalapeños, black beans, or corn.
• Crispy and flavorful: The chimichangas are crispy on the outside and packed with cheesy, well-seasoned beef inside, providing a satisfying and flavorful bite.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, these chimichangas can become a fun and delicious family tradition without requiring any special culinary skills.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Crispy Beef Chimichangas: A Mouthwatering Recipe Recipe

• Homemade Savings: Making these crispy beef and cheese chimichangas at home saves money compared to ordering takeout from a Mexican restaurant.
• Customizable Ingredients: You have control over the amount of cheese and seasoning that goes into the chimichangas, allowing you to tailor them to your preference.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the taste of these chimichangas, making them a hit for family meals.
• Impressive Flavor: These chimichangas are flavorful and satisfying, with a crispy shell and a cheesy, seasoned beef filling that tastes even better than restaurant versions.
• Versatile Options: You can switch up the protein by using chicken instead of beef, add heat with jalapeños, experiment with different cheeses, or incorporate black beans or corn for extra texture.
• Perfect Pairings: Pair these chimichangas with Spanish rice, beans, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a complete Mexican feast experience.
• Ease of Preparation: Despite their restaurant-quality taste, these chimichangas are easy to make and don’t require any special cooking skills.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the chimichangas; avoid the microwave to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the chimichangas when you’re ready to fry, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Cheesy Crispy Beef Chimichangas: A Mouthwatering Recipe

Beef Filling

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Assembly

• Vegetable oil for deep frying
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 6 large flour tortillas

How to Make Cheesy Crispy Beef Chimichangas: A Mouthwatering Recipe

Step 1: Start the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions until golden brown and fragrant, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Combine minced garlic and ground beef in a skillet. Cook until beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon while cooking.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Mix in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until fragrant and evenly distributed. Cook for 1 more minute to enhance the flavors of the spices.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined with the beef mixture.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Heat the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a dry skillet until warm and pliable for rolling.

Step 6: Fill and Roll

Place approximately 1/3 cup of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling.

Step 7: Heat the Oil

Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet until it reaches 350°F, hot enough for a small tortilla piece to sizzle upon contact.

Step 8: Fry Until Golden

Place the chimichangas in the hot oil seam-side down and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 9: Drain and Serve

Remove chimichangas and let drain on paper towels for one minute. Serve hot and crispy with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Storage Tips

Once you have made a batch of crispy beef and cheese chimichangas, you’ll want to ensure they stay as delicious as when you first made them. To store these chimichangas, allow any leftovers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days, and you can reheat them in the oven to help retain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave for reheating, as it can make the chimichangas soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chimichangas. Individually wrap each cooled chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat them in the oven until heated through. This way, you can have a delicious homemade meal ready to go whenever you crave those crispy, cheesy chimichangas.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, you can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This change will reduce the fat content while still providing a flavorful filling for the chimichangas. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with a combination of black beans and corn. This will add a different texture and flavor profile to the dish.

If you want to experiment with different cheeses, consider using a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend in place of sharp cheddar. Each cheese will bring its unique taste and melting properties to the chimichangas. You can also add a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco on top before serving for a delicious finishing touch. Feel free to customize the filling with ingredients like diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even some chopped cilantro to enhance the flavor profile of the chimichangas.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, set up a DIY chimichanga bar for a casual dinner party or family night. Prepare the crispy beef and cheese filling along with an array of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Let everyone assemble their own chimichangas using the warm tortillas and enjoy customizing their meal to their liking.

To take these crispy beef and cheese chimichangas to the next level, try serving them with a zesty mango salsa on the side. The sweet and tangy flavors of the salsa complement the savory and cheesy chimichangas perfectly, adding a refreshing twist to the dish. The combination of the crispy texture of the chimichangas with the juicy mango salsa creates a delightful contrast that will impress your guests and elevate the dining experience.

FAQs for Cheesy Crispy Beef Chimichangas: A Mouthwatering Recipe

Question?

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef for the chimichangas?

Question?

How do I prevent the chimichangas from bursting open in the oil?

Question?

Can I make the chimichangas ahead of time and reheat them later?

Question?

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with the crispy beef and cheese chimichangas?

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas becomes a beloved tradition in your home, just like it has in mine. The satisfaction of creating these delicious chimichangas from scratch, and the joy of seeing your loved ones enjoy every bite, is truly priceless. Remember, the key to success lies in sealing them properly before frying, so take that extra moment to tuck in those ends!

Whether you stick to the classic beef and cheese filling or get creative with your own twist, these chimichangas are sure to be a hit. Serve them up with your favorite sides and toppings for a Mexican feast that rivals any takeout order. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the crispy goodness of these Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas. Enjoy!