Love cheesy, beefy goodness wrapped in a crispy shell? Then you’ll want to try these delicious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas! They are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering.
## Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 large flour tortillas
– Oil for frying
## Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
3. Divide the beef mixture among the flour tortillas. Fold in the sides and roll up each tortilla to form a chimichanga.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chimichangas until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
## Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 23g
### Popular questions:
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
– Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
2. Can I freeze these chimichangas for later?
– Yes, you can freeze the unbaked chimichangas and fry them up when ready to eat.
3. What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?
– You can use any type of melting cheese such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
4. Can I bake these chimichangas instead of frying them?
– Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy.
5. What can I serve with these chimichangas?
– They go well with rice, beans, a side salad, or Mexican corn.
6. Can I make these ahead of time?
– Yes, you can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and fry them just before serving.
7. Are these chimichangas spicy?
– You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste.
8. Can I use whole wheat tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
– Yes, you can use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
9. Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?
– Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or corn for added flavor and nutrients.
10. How can I prevent the chimichangas from getting soggy?
– Make sure to drain the beef mixture well before filling the tortillas and fry them at the right temperature to keep them crispy.
### Helpful tips:
1. Add some chopped fresh cilantro to the beef mixture for a burst of flavor.
2. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a delicious garnish.
3. Experiment with different cheeses or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
4. Make a double batch and freeze extras for a quick meal on busy nights.
5. Try adding a can of diced tomatoes or green chilies to the beef mixture for added depth of flavor.
6. Use a cast-iron skillet for frying for the best results.
7. Top with your favorite hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick.
8. Make mini chimichangas by using smaller tortillas for a fun party appetizer.
9. Consider adding a layer of refried beans before adding the beef mixture for extra protein and flavor.
10. Customize your chimichangas with your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or jalapenos.
### Expert Secrets:
1. For extra crispy chimichangas, brush them with a little oil before frying.
2. Let the chimichangas rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the cheese to set.
3. Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results.
4. Make sure to seal the chimichangas tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during frying.
5. Control the heat of the oil carefully to prevent burning the chimichangas.
6. Make a spicy dipping sauce by mixing salsa with sour cream for added flavor.
7. Garnish with fresh lime wedges for a citrusy freshness.
8. Customize the seasoning in the beef mixture to suit your taste preferences.
9. Keep an eye on the chimichangas while frying to ensure they reach a golden brown color evenly on all sides.
10. Get creative with the toppings and fillings to make these chimichangas your own.
Enjoy these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas for a flavorful and satisfying meal!
