This Tex-Mex dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a special treat for yourself. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step recipe to make beef and cheese chimichangas at home. So, put on your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
How to Make Beef and Cheese Chimichanga
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily create this delicious dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of beef and cheese chimichangas!
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Chimichanga:
To create the perfect beef and cheese chimichangas, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 3 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce, divided
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 12 flour tortillas (10 inches), warmed
– 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
– 1 can (4 ounces) chopped jalapeno peppers
– Oil for deep-fat frying
– 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Direction for Beef and Cheese Chimichanga
Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step directions to make this mouthwatering dish:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Be sure to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 2: Add the Beans, Onion, and Spices
Stir in the refried beans, finely chopped onion, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, minced garlic, and ground cumin into the cooked ground beef. Continue cooking the mixture for a few minutes until all the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Assemble the Chimichangas
Spoon about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture off-center on each flour tortilla. Fold the edge nearest to the filling up and over to cover it. Then, fold in both sides and roll-up the tortilla. Secure the chimichanga with toothpicks to prevent it from unwrapping during frying.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped green chilies, chopped jalapeno peppers, and the remaining tomato sauce. Heat the sauce over medium heat until it’s warmed through.
Step 5: Fry the Chimichangas
In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil to 375°F (190°C). Carefully place the assembled chimichangas into the hot oil and fry them for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Once fried, drain the chimichangas on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the toothpicks from the chimichangas and sprinkle them with shredded cheddar cheese. Serve the chimichangas with the prepared sauce on the side. Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy tortilla, flavorful beef, and gooey cheese!
Tips and Variations
– For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chimichangas instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
– Customize your chimichangas by adding your favorite toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or chopped fresh cilantro.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to add an extra kick of flavor.
– If you prefer a spicier chimichanga, increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
– Consider using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist on this classic dish.
Can I make beef and cheese chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry or bake them as instructed in the recipe.
Can I freeze beef and cheese chimichangas?
Absolutely! Once assembled, you can freeze the chimichangas before frying or baking them. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then proceed with frying or baking.
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Certainly! Feel free to substitute ground chicken or turkey for the beef if you prefer. The flavors will still be delicious, and it can be a healthier option.
Are beef and cheese chimichangas spicy?
The spice level of the chimichangas can be adjusted based on your preference. The recipe as provided has a mild to moderate level of spiciness. However, you can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder, jalapeno peppers, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Beef and Cheese Chimichanga
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can 16 ounces refried beans
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cans 8 ounces each tomato sauce, divided
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 12 flour tortillas 10 inches, warmed.
- 1 can 4 ounces chopped green chilies.
- 1 can 4 ounces chopped jalapeno peppers.
- Oil for deep-fat frying.
- 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in the beans, onion, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic, and cumin.
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of beef mixture off-center on each tortilla. Fold edge nearest filling up and over to cover. Fold in both sides and roll-up. Fasten with toothpicks. In a large saucepan, combine the chilies, peppers, and remaining tomato sauce; heat through.
- In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat 1 in. of oil to 375°. Fry the chimichangas for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes on each side or until browned. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with cheese. Serve with sauce
