Welcome to Your New Favorite Dinner Recipe!
If you love crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed meals, then you’re in for a treat! These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the perfect blend of Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors, featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a golden, crispy tortilla.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a casual gathering, this restaurant-style chimichanga recipe is easy to follow and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Chimichangas Recipe
Golden & Crispy – Deep-fried perfection with a crunchy shell.
Savory & Cheesy – A mouthwatering mix of seasoned beef and gooey cheese.Easy to Customize – Swap the beef for chicken, turkey, or a veggie filling.
Great for Leftovers – Store and reheat for a quick meal later.
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Chimichangas:
- 8 large flour tortillas (burrito-sized)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa or pico de gallo

How to Make Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
Step1: Cook the Beef Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices toast for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.
- Pour in tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and mix in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Let the filling cool slightly.
Step2: Assemble the Chimichangas
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them more flexible.
- Place ⅓ cup of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold in the sides and roll tightly to seal in the filling.
Step3: Fry Until Golden & Crispy
- Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down in the hot oil.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping until they are golden brown.
- Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.
Step4: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the chimichangas hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Pair with Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal!
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
Use high-quality tortillas – They roll better and won’t break.
Fry at the right temperature – Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for the perfect crisp.
Don’t overfill – Overstuffed chimichangas may burst while frying.
Secure with toothpicks – If needed, prevent them from opening in the oil.
What to Serve with Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
Best Side Dishes
- Mexican Rice – A classic side.
- Refried Beans – Creamy and flavorful.
- Corn Salsa – A fresh and zesty contrast.
- Avocado Lime Crema – A cool dipping sauce.
Drinks That Pair Well
- Horchata – A sweet cinnamon rice drink.
- Iced Tea – A light, refreshing option.
Nutrition Information Per Serving
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 450 kcal |
Total Fat | 25g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Cholesterol | 80mg |
Sodium | 700mg |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Protein | 25g |
How to Store & Reheat Cheesy Beef Chimichangas
Refrigeration:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Wrap in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Methods:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes, but the texture won’t be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions For Cheesy Beef Chimichangas (FAQs)
Q: Can I make chimichangas in the air fryer?
Yes! Brush them with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Q: Can I bake chimichangas instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What’s the difference between a burrito and a chimichanga?
A burrito is soft, while a chimichanga is deep-fried and crispy.
Q: How do I keep my chimichangas from opening while frying?
Secure the seam face-down in oil first, and use toothpicks if needed.
More Tex-Mex Recipes to Try!
Here are some delicious Mexican recipes to enjoy next:
Cheesy Chicken Avocado Wrap – Best Lunch & Dinner Idea
Big Mac Casserole Recipe – Easy & Cheesy Dinner Idea
Conclusion: Make These Cheesy Beef Chimichangas Tonight!
These crispy, cheesy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are the perfect Tex-Mex dinner. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry, they’ll always turn out golden and delicious.
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments!
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Cheesy Beef Chimichangas– Easy Dinner Recipe
Description
If you love Mexican food, this crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed Beef and Cheese Chimichanga recipe is perfect for your next dinner. This dish is a deep-fried burrito filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and bold spices, making it an irresistible Tex-Mex classic.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a family-friendly meal, or something to satisfy your craving for Mexican flavors, this authentic chimichanga recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Chimichangas:
- 8 large flour tortillas (burrito-sized)
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
Toppings for Serving:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa or Pico de Gallo
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook ground beef until browned.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring for 5 minutes.
- Mix in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas
- Warm the flour tortillas in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them flexible.
- Place 1/3 cup of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold in the sides, then roll tightly, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
Step 3: Fry the Chimichangas Until Golden and Crispy
- Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chimichangas seam-side down, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy.
- Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your golden brown chimichangas with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. Pair with Mexican rice or refried beans for the perfect meal!
Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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Use high-quality tortillas – Soft, pliable tortillas roll better and don’t break.
Fry at the right temperature – Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for crispy results.
Don’t overfill – Overstuffed chimichangas may burst while frying.