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A close-up of a Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, perfectly fried with a crispy golden shell, filled with savory ground beef and melted cheese, topped with fresh salsa and sour cream.

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a crispy, cheesy delight that will quickly become your family's favorite meal.
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Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, beef chimichangas, cheese chimichangas, chimichangas, crispy chimichangas, easy dinner, Mexican food
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 365kcal
Cost: $12

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs. Ground beef Lean ground beef is recommended for less fat
  • 1 Can refried beans Any type but traditional pinto is preferred
  • ½ Medium onion chopped (Yellow or white onion works best)
  • 2 tsp. Minced garlic Fresh or pre-minced
  • 2 tsp. Chili powder Adjust for spice preference
  • 1 tsp. Cumin Ground cumin adds flavor
  • ½ tsp. Oregano Dried oregano
  • 10 10- inch flour tortillas Soft large tortillas for easy rolling
  • 24 oz. Tomato sauce Use your preferred brand
  • 4 oz. Diced green chilis in a can Adds a mild heat
  • 4 oz. Chopped jalapenos in a can Optional adjust for heat
  • 1 ½ Cups shredded taco blend cheese Cheddar and Monterey Jack
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season according to preference
  • Oil for frying Vegetable oil works well for frying

Instructions

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
  • Add the refried beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ½ cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
  • Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to make them more pliable.
  • In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat until hot.
  • Place about 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla. Fold the bottom over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to form a sealed packet. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
  • Carefully place the chimichangas into the hot oil, cooking them in batches if necessary. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side.
  • Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain excess grease on a paper towel-lined tray.
  • For the sauce, combine the remaining tomato sauce, diced green chilis, and chopped jalapenos in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until warm. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
  • Spoon the heated sauce over the fried chimichangas and top with shredded cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

These crispy chimichangas are stuffed with a flavorful beef and bean filling and topped with a zesty tomato sauce for the perfect blend of savory goodness. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapenos, depending on your preference!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 365kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 853mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 20mg