Description
Embark on a flavor-packed adventure with this recipe for Crispy Beef & Cheese Chimichangas, delightful pockets of joy that are perfectly crunchy on the outside and filled with savory beef and gooey cheese on the inside.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Filling
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp Spices (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder)
- 1 cup Chopped Onions
- 1 cup Chopped Bell Peppers
Tortillas
- 4 large Flour or Corn Tortillas
Frying Oil
- Oil for Frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 lb ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then stir in 1 cup chopped onions, 1 cup chopped bell peppers, and 2 tablespoons of your favorite spices. Cook until the veggies are tender, then mix in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Assemble the Chimichangas: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface and spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese mixture into the center. Fold in the sides and then roll it tightly from the bottom up to encase the filling.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat oil over medium-high until it reaches 350°F. You can test it by dropping in a small piece of tortilla — if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
- Fry the Chimichangas: Carefully place the chimichangas in the hot oil, cooking a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Then remove and drain on paper towels.
Notes
- Don’t Overfill: Leave some space to fold the tortilla securely; otherwise, the filling may leak out during frying.
- Seal the Edges: Use a bit of water on the edges to seal the chimichangas tightly, preventing them from opening up while cooking.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep a watchful eye on oil temperature; if it’s too low, the chimichangas will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy.
- Try Baking: For a healthier version, brush with oil and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes until crisp.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy them right after frying for maximum crispiness and flavor satisfaction.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg