Chimichangas are a beloved Mexican-American dish known for their crispy, deep-fried tortilla shells filled with a delicious combination of ingredients. One of the most popular variations is the Beef and Cheese Chimichanga, which combines seasoned ground beef with ooey-gooey cheese and a blend of flavorful spices. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Chimichanga:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Cooking oil for frying
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Salsa (optional, for serving)
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preparing the Beef Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add the ground beef and cook until it browns and crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the beef with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the filling is well combined. Remove from heat.
- Assembling the Chimichangas:
- Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave or on a dry skillet for a few seconds to make them pliable.
- Place a generous portion of the beef and cheese filling onto the center of each tortilla.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly, like a burrito, ensuring that the ends are sealed.
- Frying the Chimichangas:
- In a large skillet, heat about 2 inches of cooking oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place each chimichanga seam side down into the hot oil. Fry until they become golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning as needed.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serving:
- Serve your Beef and Cheese Chimichangas hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, and accompanied by sour cream and salsa for dipping.
The Beef and Cheese Chimichanga is a delightful Tex-Mex treat that’s sure to satisfy your craving for a hearty, flavorful meal. With its crispy exterior and cheesy, savory interior, it’s a dish that’s loved by both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a winner that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!
