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The Ultimate Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas (Oven-Baked Option Included)

Close-up of a crispy, golden-brown chimichangas filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese.
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Make satisfying Tex Mex favorites at home. This recipe delivers perfectly crispy chimichangas stuffed with seasoned ground beef and gooey melted cheese. Use the oven method for a lighter, golden crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet (about 1 ounce) taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup refried beans, warmed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Vegetable oil for frying (if not baking)
  • Optional Toppings: Salsa, sour cream, guacamole

Instructions

  1. Cook the beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Season the beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the liquid reduces. Remove from heat.
  3. Assemble the chimichangas: Lay a warm tortilla flat. Spread about 1 tablespoon of warm refried beans down the center. Top with about 1/4 cup of the seasoned beef mixture and 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
  4. Fold the chimichangas: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, tightly roll the bottom edge up over the filling and continue rolling tightly until you have a sealed burrito shape. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Repeat for all 12 tortillas.
  5. Cook for crispiness (Frying Method): Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet and heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place 2-3 chimichangas seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning gently, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  6. Cook for crispiness (Baking Method): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray both sides of the assembled chimichangas with cooking spray or brush lightly with oil for a golden finish. Place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve immediately with your preferred toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Notes

  • To achieve the best crunch when baking, lightly brush the outside of the wrapped tortillas with melted butter or oil before placing them in the oven.
  • You can substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken for a different take on this comfort food recipe.
  • Prepare the beef filling ahead of time; this makes assembly for a quick weeknight dinner much faster.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/crispy-beef-cheese-chimichangas-recipe/