Beef and Cheese Chimichanga

Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal? This Beef and Cheese Chimichanga recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With crispy tortillas, savory beef, and a cheesy topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs. ground beef
• 1 can refried beans
• ½ medium onion, chopped
• 2 tsp. minced garlic
• 2 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. cumin
• ½ tsp. oregano
• (10) 10-inch flour tortillas
• 24 oz. tomato sauce
• 4 oz. diced green chilis (canned)
• 4 oz. chopped jalapenos (canned)
• 1 ½ cups shredded taco blend cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:
   • Add the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until the meat is completely browned, then drain off the excess liquid.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Add the refried beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ½ cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 5 minutes over medium heat, stirring to combine the ingredients well.
3. Heat the Tortillas:
   • Warm the tortillas in the microwave until they are soft and pliable.
4. Prepare for Frying:
   • Heat about an inch of oil in the bottom of a deep-sided skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Assemble the Chimichangas:
   • Place an even amount of the beef and bean mixture in the center of each tortilla. Fold one end of the tortilla over the filling, tuck in the sides, and then roll it closed to form a packet. Secure each packet with a toothpick.
6. Fry the Chimichangas:
   • Carefully place the filled chimichangas into the hot oil, frying until they are browned and crispy on both sides. Keep a close eye on them, as this will not take long.
7. Drain and Prepare the Sauce:
   • Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain excess grease on a paper towel-lined tray. In a saucepan, combine the remaining tomato sauce, diced green chilis, and chopped jalapenos. Heat the sauce over medium heat, adding salt and pepper to taste if needed.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the warm sauce over the finished chimichangas. Top with shredded taco blend cheese and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 10

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Presentation: For a visually appealing presentation, arrange the chimichangas on a serving platter and drizzle with the warm tomato sauce. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
2. Accompaniments: Serve chimichangas with your favorite sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with a side of sour cream or a spicy salsa for dipping.
3. Serving Temperature: Chimichangas are best enjoyed hot and crispy. Serve them immediately after frying for the best texture. If you’re preparing them in advance, reheat them in an oven to maintain their crispiness.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, consider reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave.
2. Freezing: If you need to store chimichangas for a longer period, they can be frozen. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
3. Reheating: For the best results, reheat chimichangas in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as this can make the tortillas soggy.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas remain delicious and enjoyable every time!

Variations:

1. Chicken Chimichangas:
   • Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken. Season the chicken with the same spices and follow the recipe as directed.
2. Vegetarian Chimichangas:
   • Replace the beef with a combination of black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use a vegetarian refried bean option and top with cheese for a meatless version.
3. Spicy Chimichangas:
   • Increase the heat by adding more chopped jalapenos or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling. You can also use a spicier cheese blend or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Cheesy Beef Chimichangas:
   • For an extra cheesy version, mix in a cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese directly into the beef and bean filling before assembling the chimichangas.
5. Barbecue Beef Chimichangas:
   • Incorporate 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce into the beef mixture for a tangy, smoky flavor. Top with additional barbecue sauce after frying for extra taste.
6. Breakfast Chimichangas:
   • Add scrambled eggs to the beef and bean mixture for a hearty breakfast twist. You can also include cooked breakfast sausage or bacon for additional flavor.
7. Southwest Chimichangas:
   • Mix in ingredients like corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilis for a Southwest-inspired variation. Top with fresh cilantro and avocado.
8. Buffalo Beef Chimichangas:
   • Add 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy, tangy flavor. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
9. Tex-Mex Chimichangas:
   • Include a mixture of Tex-Mex spices, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, in the beef filling. Top with salsa and a dollop of sour cream before serving.
10. Creamy Beef Chimichangas:
    • Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream into the beef mixture for a richer, creamier filling.

Feel free to customize these variations to suit your taste and preferences, making your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas even more enjoyable!

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork instead of ground beef. Adjust the seasoning as needed to match the type of meat you’re using.
2. Can I make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and fry the chimichangas just before serving.
3. Can I bake the chimichangas instead of frying them?
   • Yes, you can bake chimichangas for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the chimichangas on a baking sheet, brush with a little oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
4. What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
   • If you prefer, you can use whole wheat tortillas or gluten-free tortillas as a substitute for flour tortillas. The cooking method remains the same.
5. How do I prevent the chimichangas from becoming soggy?
   • Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overfilling the tortillas. Drain the fried chimichangas on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
6. Can I freeze the chimichangas before frying them?
   • Yes, you can freeze assembled but uncooked chimichangas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly.
7. How can I make the chimichangas spicier?
   • Add more chopped jalapenos, use a spicy cheese blend, or incorporate extra chili powder and cayenne pepper into the beef mixture to increase the heat.
8. What toppings can I use for Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?
   • Top the chimichangas with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes.
9. Can I use homemade refried beans?
   • Yes, homemade refried beans work great in this recipe. Just make sure they are well-seasoned and cooked to your preference.
10. How do I reheat leftover chimichangas?
    • For best results, reheat leftover chimichangas in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the tortillas soggy.

These FAQs should help you with common questions and tips to make your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas delicious every time!