Description
Crispy chimichangas filled with seasoned beef, refried beans, and melted cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
- 1 cup refried beans (regular or low-fat)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
- 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing or frying)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease and return the pan to heat. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Let the filling cool slightly. Lay one tortilla flat, spread refried beans down the center, then add beef mixture and cheese.
- Fold in the sides and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- For the oven method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Brush chimichangas with oil and bake for 18–20 minutes until crispy.
- For the skillet method: Heat oil in a skillet and cook chimichangas seam-side down for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Let rest for 1–2 minutes before serving with toppings.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, swap beef for lentils or crumbled tofu. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican