Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Name: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion (finely diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade); ½ cup salsa; 1 cup refried beans; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend); 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

Jena Ellison

Update : March 2, 2026

Delicious beef and cheese chimichangas garnished with fresh toppings

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why make this recipe

Beef and cheese chimichangas are a fantastic way to enjoy a tasty meal that is both filling and satisfying. They combine juicy ground beef, rich refried beans, and melted cheese all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Plus, you can customize the flavors with your favorite toppings!

how to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (finely diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade)
½ cup salsa
1 cup refried beans
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

Directions:

Cook the beef filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain the excess grease. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until well combined.
Assemble the chimichangas: Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
Cook the chimichangas:
- Oven method (healthier): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
- Skillet method (crispier): Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Add toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.

how to serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Serve the chimichangas hot, straight from the oven or skillet. They go great with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh lettuce. You can also serve them with a side of rice or a simple salad for a complete meal.

how to store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.

tips to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Customize the filling: You can mix in your favorite ingredients like bell peppers, black beans, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
Make it spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Crispy texture: For a crispy finish, make sure to seal the chimichangas tightly and do not overcrowd the skillet when frying.

variation

You can use shredded chicken or tofu as a filling instead of ground beef. This makes the dish adaptable for different diets. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add beans and vegetables to the filling for added nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Yes, whole wheat tortillas are a great alternative to traditional flour tortillas. They will provide a slightly different flavor and texture but will still work well.

2. Is it possible to freeze chimichangas?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked chimichangas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and then freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready, cook them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I make chimichangas in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the chimichangas. Store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. This makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready to go!