Description
Mexican-inspired beef and cheese chimichangas combine crispy tortillas with savory seasoned ground beef and melted cheese. Golden-brown exterior gives way to a rich, hearty filling that delights diners seeking authentic southwestern comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, carefully draining excess fat to ensure a crisp texture.
- Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic flavors.
- Incorporate chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper into the meat mixture, then blend in salsa for a robust and zesty profile.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the spices meld and intensify the overall taste.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in a blend of shredded cheeses, creating a creamy and rich filling.
- Carefully distribute the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then meticulously fold into a compact, sealed burrito shape.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to precisely 350°F (175°C), ensuring the perfect frying temperature for a crispy exterior.
- Carefully lower chimichangas into the hot oil, frying in small batches until they achieve a golden-brown, crunchy finish, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to paper towels to absorb excess oil, allowing them to drain and maintain their crisp texture.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by your preferred garnishes for a delightful and authentic Mexican-inspired meal.
Notes
- Customize the spice level by adjusting chili powder or using different types of salsa for varied heat intensities.
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Prevent soggy chimichangas by ensuring tortillas are tightly wrapped and oil is at the correct temperature before frying.
- Transform into a vegetarian option by substituting beef with black beans, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives for a protein-rich filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 468 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg