Name: Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 large flour tortillas; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup refried beans; 1 tsp taco seasoning; Oil for brushing; Fresh toppings (lettuce, tomato, salsa, sour cream) for serving

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why make this recipe

Cheesy Beef Chimichangas are a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. They are crispy on the outside and filled with juicy beef and melted cheese on the inside. This recipe is great for busy weeknights because it’s simple to make and perfect for any gathering. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste.

how to make Cheesy Beef Chimichangas

Ingredients

4 large flour tortillas
1 lb ground beef
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/2 cup refried beans
1 tsp taco seasoning
Oil for brushing
Fresh toppings (lettuce, tomato, salsa, sour cream) for serving

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and refried beans until well combined.
Lay out a tortilla and fill it with a portion of the beef mixture and cheese. Fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly.
Place the filled chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush the tops with oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, salsa, and sour cream.

how to serve Cheesy Beef Chimichangas

Serve the Cheesy Beef Chimichangas hot out of the oven. Add fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, flavorful salsa, and creamy sour cream to enhance the dish. These chimichangas also pair well with a side of guacamole or Mexican rice.

how to store Cheesy Beef Chimichangas

To store leftovers, let the chimichangas cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each chimichanga in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

tips to make Cheesy Beef Chimichangas

Make sure not to overfill the tortillas; this helps them close properly and remain crispy.
Feel free to add more toppings or mix in other ingredients like black beans, corn, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
If you prefer a healthier option, try baking them instead of frying. Brushing them with oil helps achieve that golden-brown color.

variation

You can easily change the filling in Cheesy Beef Chimichangas. Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken, turkey, or a meatless option like textured vegetable protein or quinoa for a vegetarian version. Add different cheeses or spices according to your preferred taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Cheesy Beef Chimichangas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chimichangas in advance, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Q: What can I use instead of refried beans?
A: You can use black beans or pinto beans. Just mash them up a bit and mix them with the beef.

Q: Are these chimichangas spicy?
A: The spice level depends on the taco seasoning you use. You can choose mild or spicy seasoning based on your preference.