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Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas offer a tantalizing crunch with a warm, cheesy center, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion (finely diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade)
  • ½ cup salsa
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
For Assembling
  • 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease.
  2. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until well combined.
  3. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese.
  4. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
Cooking
  1. Oven method (healthier): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
  2. Skillet method (crispier): Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place chimichangas seam-side down and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
  3. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa. For added flavor, toast the garlic before adding it to the filling.