Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Name: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion (finely diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade); ½ cup salsa; 1 cup refried beans; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend); 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

Jessica Baker

Update : February 20, 2026

Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas served with toppings

why make this recipe

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a delightful dish that combines savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. They are perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe brings together classic flavors that everyone loves, and the best part is that you can customize the toppings to suit your taste. Making chimichangas at home is also a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without the need for takeout.

how to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (finely diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade)
½ cup salsa
1 cup refried beans
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing/frying)

Directions

Cook the beef filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and salsa. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until well combined.
Assemble the chimichangas: Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a handful of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
Cook the chimichangas:
- Oven method (healthier): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with vegetable oil and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
- Skillet method (crispier): Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place chimichangas seam-side down and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Add toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, or salsa if desired.

how to serve Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Serve the chimichangas hot, right out of the oven or skillet. They are delicious on their own or with your favorite toppings. Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa make great additions that complement the flavors of the dish.

how to store Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

To store leftover chimichangas, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each chimichanga tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

tips to make Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Ensure you season the beef well. You can adjust the taco seasoning amount based on how spicy you want the filling.
Use a variety of cheeses for extra flavor. Mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack can be delicious.
If you prefer extra crispiness, use the skillet method for cooking.
Don’t overfill the tortillas; this makes them harder to roll and can cause them to break apart during cooking.

variation

You can make these chimichangas with chicken, turkey, or vegetables as a filling for a different flavor profile. Consider adding black beans, corn, or diced peppers for added texture and taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you are ready to cook.

2. Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option, and baking them at 400°F will give you a nice crispy texture.

3. How do I reheat leftover chimichangas?
You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, a microwave works in a pinch but may not keep them crispy.