Description
These Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas deliver a satisfying, restaurant-style Tex-Mex experience right in your own kitchen. By combining savory, perfectly seasoned ground beef with hearty refried beans and melted, gooey cheese, each pocket offers a delicious contrast between a crunch-filled golden flour tortilla and a flavorful, creamy center. This recipe is an ideal, family-friendly dinner solution for busy weeknights, providing a hearty, handheld meal that is both comforting and consistently impressive without the need for deep-frying.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
1 cup canned refried beans
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 large flour tortillas
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and onions until the meat is browned and onions are softened.
Drain excess fat and stir in the refried beans, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Spoon approximately 1/2 cup of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla, top with a generous portion of shredded cheese.
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll tightly to create a sealed burrito shape.
Place the burritos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly brush the tops and sides of each chimichanga with vegetable oil to promote browning.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Notes
Ensure the tortillas are at room temperature or slightly warmed in the microwave to prevent cracking during the rolling process. For extra crispiness, you can broil for the final minute of cooking, but watch closely to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex