Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas: 12 Irresistible Bites

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Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful twist on classic Tex-Mex cuisine. These golden, fried tortillas are filled with a rich, savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and gooey, melted cheese, making them a beloved comfort food. Whether you’re enjoying them for dinner or serving them up at a party, these chimichangas are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious beef-filled delights!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas. For starters, they are incredibly satisfying, thanks to the combination of crispy tortillas and a cheesy beef filling. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste, making them perfect for everyone. They’re also perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them any night of the week. Plus, they pair wonderfully with salsa and guacamole, making them the best crispy beef cheese chimichangas for any occasion. Not to mention, they are an excellent way to introduce kids to the joys of cooking!

Ingredients for Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

Gather these items:

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 large yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
12 large (10-inch) flour tortillas
3 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons cold water
4-6 cups vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, for deep frying

How to Make Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown ground beef for 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Return skillet to medium heat. Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or up to an hour, until thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Warm flour tortillas to make them pliable (microwave, steamer, or dry skillet). Shred cheese if not already done. Whisk ¼ cup all-purpose flour and 3 tablespoons cold water to form a smooth paste for sealing.
Step 5: Lay a warm tortilla flat. Spoon about ½ cup beef filling onto the center, shaping into a log. Sprinkle with ¼ cup shredded cheese. Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla inward (1-1 ½ inches). Starting from the bottom, roll the tortilla tightly upwards. Dab flour paste on the top edge and finish rolling to seal securely. Place seam-side down. Repeat for all chimichangas.
Step 6: Heat 4-6 cups frying oil in a heavy pot to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Line a plate with paper towels for draining. Carefully fry 2-3 chimichangas at a time, seam-side down first, for 3-5 minutes, turning until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd.
Step 7: Remove fried chimichangas and place on paper towels to drain. Repeat for remaining batches, ensuring oil temperature is maintained. Serve immediately with desired toppings such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, cilantro, or pico de gallo. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days; reheat in oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

Keep these in mind:

For the best crispy beef cheese chimichangas, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; this will help achieve that golden crispiness.
Don’t overfill the tortillas; this will prevent them from sealing properly and may cause the filling to leak during frying.
Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors; Monterey Jack and Mexican blend work wonderfully.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

These chimichangas are best served hot and crispy. Consider pairing them with:

Fresh guacamole for a creamy contrast.
Spicy salsa to add a kick to each bite.
Shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes for a refreshing crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

To store, place leftover chimichangas in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, which will help restore their crispiness and deliciousness. This makes meal prep easy and allows you to enjoy these flavorful bites any night of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas

What is a beef cheese chimichanga?

A beef cheese chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito typically filled with seasoned ground beef and cheese, making it a popular Tex-Mex dish that’s loved for its crispy exterior and savory filling.

Can I make Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the chimichangas. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve for a fresh and crispy result!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your tortillas are warm and pliable for easy rolling, and don’t overcrowd the frying pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Variations of Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

Try adding black beans or corn to the beef filling for extra flavor and texture.
For a spicy twist, incorporate jalapeños into the filling.
Make them vegetarian by substituting the beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables.