Crispy Beef Cheese Chimichangas (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Beef Filling
01 -
1 pound lean ground beef
02 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 -
1 teaspoon chili powder
06 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ Assembly
07 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
08 -
6 large flour tortillas
09 -
Vegetable oil for deep frying
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until they're golden brown and fragrant, about 5-6 minutes.
02 -
Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
03 -
Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until the spices are well distributed and fragrant. Cook for another minute to bloom the spices.
04 -
Remove the skillet from heat and blend in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it's completely melted and incorporated into the beef mixture.
05 -
Briefly warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a dry skillet to make them more pliable for rolling.
06 -
Spoon about ⅓ cup of the beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly, tucking in the ends as you go to create a secure package.
07 -
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to 350°F. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of tortilla sizzles immediately.
08 -
Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy all over.
09 -
Remove the chimichangas and drain on paper towels for a minute. Serve immediately while hot and crispy with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
# Notes:
01 -
Make sure the oil temperature stays at 350°F for the crispiest results
02 -
Don't overfill the tortillas or they'll be difficult to roll and may burst while frying
03 -
These can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to fry
04 -
Serve with your favorite Mexican sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad