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Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

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  • Author: Nora Callahan
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dishes

Description

Golden shells crack open to reveal juicy spiced beef blended with melting cheddar and Monterey Jack, finished with creamy guacamole, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.


Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup guacamole
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro


Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  3. Stir in taco seasoning and water, simmer until liquid is absorbed and mixture is thick.
  4. Lay a flour tortilla flat and spoon beef mixture onto its center, top with cheddar, Monterey Jack and salsa.
  5. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly to enclose the filling and form a chimichanga.
  6. In a separate deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry each chimichanga seam side down for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove and drain on paper towels, then top with sour cream, guacamole and chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, bake chimichangas at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, turning once until golden.
  • You can prepare chimichangas ahead and freeze unbaked; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
  • Swap beef for shredded chicken or pork and use your favorite salsa or hot sauce for variation.
  • Serve with extra lime wedges, pico de gallo or a side of refried beans for a complete meal.