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Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Crispy, deep-fried burritos filled with seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, a Tex-Mex favorite.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 chimichangas
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Filling
  • 1 pound Ground Beef 80/20 or 85/15
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 15 ounce can Refried Beans
  • 1 10 ounce can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
For Assembly and Frying
  • 8-10 large burrito-size Flour Tortillas
  • 2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican Blend Cheese
  • Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil for deep-frying
For Serving (Optional)
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
  • Guacamole or Sliced Avocado
  • Salsa or Pico de Gallo
  • Shredded Lettuce
  • Chopped Fresh Cilantro

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Brown ground beef, drain grease. Add onion, cook 5 mins. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cook 1 min.
  2. Combine Filling Ingredients: Stir in refried beans and undrained Rotel. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Warm the Tortillas: Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable (microwave or dry skillet).
  4. Assemble the Chimichangas: Lay tortilla flat. Spoon ½ cup filling onto center. Sprinkle ¼ cup shredded cheese over filling.
  5. Fold the Chimichangas: Fold in sides of tortilla, then tightly roll from bottom. Secure ends.
  6. Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry the Chimichangas: Carefully place 1-2 chimichangas in hot oil. Fry 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  8. Serve Immediately: Serve hot with desired toppings (sour cream, guacamole, salsa, etc.).

Notes

Ensure oil temperature is consistent for even frying. Can air fry or bake for healthier options. Experiment with different meats or cheeses. Adjust spice level as desired. Can assemble ahead of time and refrigerate.