Crispy Beef & Cheese Chimichangas capture everything people love about Tex-Mex comfort food—golden, crunchy exteriors wrapped around a rich, savory filling of seasoned beef and melty cheese. Whether fried to deep crisp perfection, baked for a lighter version, or air-fried for convenience, these chimichangas deliver unbeatable flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. They’re quick to assemble, endlessly customizable, and perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cravings.
The filling comes together with simple ingredients, but the combination is magic. Seasoned ground beef simmered with tomato sauce creates a bold, flavorful base that’s hearty without being heavy. Stirring in shredded cheese while the mixture is still warm makes the filling creamy and cohesive, so it melts beautifully as the chimichangas cook. Optional additions like green chiles, jalapeños, or a thin layer of refried beans add even more depth and personality.
What elevates these chimichangas is the cooking method. Frying gives you that classic restaurant-style crunch, but baking or air frying still delivers impressive crispness with less oil. The tortillas blister and brown while the interior stays piping hot and cheesy. A finishing drizzle of sour cream, salsa, or queso turns them into a full Tex-Mex experience.
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These chimichangas are simple, reliable, and incredibly delicious. Serve them with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal, or enjoy them on their own with your favorite dipping sauces. Either way, they’re guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.
Servings: 6 chimichangas
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Oil for frying (or brushing if baking/air frying)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Diced green chiles
- Jalapeños
- Thin layer of refried beans
Instructions:
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