Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Name: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 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)

Jack Ellison

Update : March 2, 2026

Delicious Beef and Cheese Chimichangas ready to be served

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why make this recipe

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious and filling meal that everyone will love. They combine juicy ground beef with melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized 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 any excess grease. Stir in the minced 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 your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the 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 the chimichangas seam-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Serve: Remove from heat and let the chimichangas rest for 2 minutes before serving. Add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.

how to serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Serve your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas hot, straight from the oven or skillet. You can set them on a large platter for a shared meal or serve individuals their own chimichanga on a plate. Don’t forget to provide toppings like sour cream and salsa for added flavor!

how to store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

If you have leftover chimichangas, let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

tips to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef filling.
Don’t overfill the chimichangas to prevent them from bursting while cooking.
Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for some heat, or a blend of cheeses for a richer taste.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe to fit your needs. For a healthier version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add different beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for variety.

FAQs

Q: Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator and cook them when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
A: Yes, corn tortillas can work, but they may be more fragile, so handle them gently when rolling.

Q: What can I serve with chimichangas?
A: Chimichangas pair well with rice, beans, or a light salad. They are also great with a side of guacamole or chips and salsa.