Go Back
–+ servings
Chimichangas with Beef and Cheese

Chimichangas with Beef and Cheese

Crunchy, golden chimichangas packed with seasoned beef, refried beans, and gooey cheese. Finish with cool toppings for the perfect bite.
Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 cup vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 4 oz diced green chiles, drained
  • 0.75 cup tomato sauce
  • 1.25 cup refried beans
  • 1.5 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.75 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 20 oz flour tortillas about eight 8–10 inch tortillas
  • 2 cup shredded cheese blend cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 0.5 cup sour cream for serving
  • 0.5 cup salsa or pico de gallo for serving
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Heat a large skillet over medium and add a spoonful of oil. Soften the onion for 3–4 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Crumble in the ground beef. Brown fully, breaking it up, then spoon off excess fat.
  • Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  • Mix in tomato sauce, green chiles, and refried beans. Simmer until thick and cohesive, 4–5 minutes.
  • Off the heat, stir in lime juice. Let the filling cool 5 minutes.
  • Warm tortillas until pliable. Microwave under a damp towel or on a skillet for 20–30 seconds.
  • Spoon filling across the lower third of each tortilla. Sprinkle with some shredded cheese.
  • Fold in the sides, then roll up tightly to seal the seam. Set seam-side down.
  • Heat 1.5 cups oil in a deep skillet to about 350°F. Fry chimichangas seam-side down until golden, 2–3 minutes per side.
  • Drain on a rack or paper towels. Serve hot with sour cream, salsa, and cilantro.

Notes

Air-fryer option: Brush with oil and cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, turning once. For a creamy filling, fold 1/2 cup sour cream into the cooled beef mixture before rolling. Leftovers reheat best in a 375°F oven for 8–12 minutes to restore crispness.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Chimichangas with Beef and Cheese flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.