Description: Crispy, cheesy, and packed with seasoned beef, these chimichangas are baked to golden perfection and make a satisfying meal the whole family will love. A delightful twist on the classic Mexican favorite, these baked chimichangas offer a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version without sacrificing any of the irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly golden, crispy tortilla, giving way to a warm, savory filling of seasoned ground beef and a gooey blend of melted cheeses. Each bite is an explosion of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.
These chimichangas are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or even a fun family cooking activity. The recipe is easy to follow, and you can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, making it a dish that caters to everyone’s preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.
The secret to these chimichangas lies in the combination of simple ingredients and a careful baking process. The beef filling is seasoned with a classic taco seasoning blend, adding depth and complexity to the flavor. The cheese blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack provides a perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness, creating a gooey, satisfying center. Baking the chimichangas instead of frying them ensures a crispy exterior without the added grease, making them a healthier and lighter option.
But what truly sets these chimichangas apart is the freedom to personalize them. Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro, to create a customized culinary masterpiece. Whether you prefer a mild and creamy flavor profile or a spicy and zesty kick, these chimichangas can be tailored to your exact taste preferences.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef: The heart of the filling, providing a rich and savory base. Opt for lean ground beef to minimize grease and enhance the overall healthiness of the dish.
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet and aromatic element to the filling, complementing the savory beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with a pungent and robust flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: A convenient blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to the beef filling, creating that classic taco flavor. You can also make your own taco seasoning blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps to create a saucy consistency in the filling, allowing the flavors to meld together and preventing the beef from drying out.
For Assembly:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp and tangy flavor that complements the savory beef and adds a creamy texture to the filling.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a mild and buttery flavor that melts beautifully, creating a gooey and satisfying cheese pull.
- 6 large flour tortillas: The perfect vessel for encasing the flavorful filling. Choose soft, pliable tortillas that are easy to roll and hold their shape during baking.
For Baking:
- 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil (for brushing): Adds a golden-brown color and crispy texture to the chimichangas. Brushing the tortillas with butter or oil before baking helps them to crisp up and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream: Adds a cool and creamy contrast to the warm and savory chimichangas.
- Salsa: Provides a zesty and flavorful kick that complements the beef and cheese.
- Fresh chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh and vibrant touch that brightens up the overall flavor of the dish.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. This step is crucial for rendering out excess fat and ensuring that the beef is cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until the onion is tender (about 3–5 minutes). Cooking the onion and garlic until tender releases their aromatic compounds, adding depth and complexity to the filling.
- Drain excess grease. Removing excess grease prevents the chimichangas from becoming greasy and heavy.
- Stir in taco seasoning and water. The taco seasoning infuses the beef with a classic taco flavor, while the water helps to create a saucy consistency.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Simmering the filling allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken, creating a cohesive and flavorful filling.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Cooling the filling slightly prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy and makes it easier to handle during assembly.
Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas:
- Lay a tortilla on a flat surface. Ensure that the tortilla is clean and dry before adding the filling.
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of beef mixture in the center. Avoid overfilling the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during baking.
- Top with a generous sprinkle of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Don’t be shy with the cheese! A generous layer of cheese will create a gooey and satisfying center.
- Fold in the sides, then roll up tightly like a burrito. Folding in the sides helps to seal in the filling and prevents it from spilling out during baking. Rolling the tortillas tightly ensures that they hold their shape and crisp up evenly.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheat the oven to ensure that the chimichangas bake evenly and crisp up properly.
- Place chimichangas seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Placing the chimichangas seam-side down helps to prevent them from unrolling during baking. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the chimichangas from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Brush tops and sides lightly with melted butter or oil. Brushing the tortillas with butter or oil adds a golden-brown color and crispy texture.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the chimichangas and adjust the baking time as needed.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve:
- Let cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Cooling the chimichangas slightly allows the filling to set and prevents them from being too hot to handle.
- Top with sour cream, salsa, and chopped cilantro. Garnish with your favorite toppings to add flavor and visual appeal.
Why you will love this recipe
This Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly delicious, offering a satisfying combination of crispy tortillas, savory beef filling, and gooey melted cheese. The recipe is also easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Beyond the taste and ease, these baked chimichangas are a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. Baking significantly reduces the amount of fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence. The recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize the filling and toppings to your liking. Add your favorite vegetables, beans, or spices to create a unique and personalized dish.
Finally, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving a family dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or looking for a fun appetizer, these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are sure to be a hit. They’re a fun and festive dish that everyone will enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and chopped tomatoes, so that everyone can customize their chimichangas to their liking.
- Serve as an appetizer for a Mexican-themed party.
- Cut the chimichangas into smaller pieces and serve as finger food for a casual gathering.
Tips:
- To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy, avoid overfilling them with the beef mixture.
- If you have time, prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to make the chimichangas.
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling.
- To make vegetarian chimichangas, substitute the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a vegetarian ground meat substitute.
- If you don’t have shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, you can use any other type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per chimichanga, without toppings)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. With their crispy tortillas, savory beef filling, and gooey melted cheese, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The recipe is easy to follow, and you can customize the filling and toppings to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for a party, these chimichangas are a great choice. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Mexico in your own home!
Questions and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I make these chimichangas ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush them with melted butter or oil and bake as directed.
Q2: Can I freeze these chimichangas?
A: Yes, you can freeze these chimichangas for longer storage. Assemble the chimichangas as directed, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then brush them with melted butter or oil and bake as directed.
Q3: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Some other cheeses that would work well in this recipe include mozzarella, Colby Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to the beef filling?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables to the beef filling is a great way to boost the nutritional value of the dish and add extra flavor. Some vegetables that would work well include diced bell peppers, onions, corn, black beans, or even chopped spinach.
Q5: Can I make these chimichangas spicier?
A: Absolutely! If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning blend or add some chopped jalapenos to the filling. For an extra kick, serve the chimichangas with a side of spicy salsa or hot sauce.
