Beef and Cheese Chimichanga

Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish. The seasoned beef and refried beans create a hearty filling, while the deep-frying adds a delightful crispiness to the tortilla. The accompanying sauce with green chilies and jalapeno peppers adds a spicy kick to the dish.

Beef and Cheese Chimichanga

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 3 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce, divided
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 12 flour tortillas (10 inches), warmed.
• 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies.
• 1 can (4 ounces) chopped jalapeno peppers.
• Oil for deep-fat frying.
• 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.

How To Make Beef and Cheese Chimichanga:

Step 1: Prepare Filling

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in refried beans, chopped onion, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, chili powder, minced garlic, and ground cumin. Combine well and let it cook for a few minutes until flavors meld.

Step 2: Assemble Chimichangas

3. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the beef mixture off-center on each tortilla.
4. Fold the edge nearest to the filling up and over to cover. Then, fold in both sides and roll up. Secure with toothpicks.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce

5. In a large saucepan, combine chopped green chilies, chopped jalapeno peppers, and the remaining tomato sauce. Heat the sauce through.

Step 4: Fry Chimichangas

6. In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil to 375°F.
7. Fry the chimichangas for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve

8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the fried chimichangas.
9. Serve the chimichangas with the prepared sauce.

Tips:

• Toothpick Removal: Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving to avoid any accidents.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 375°F for optimal frying. Use a thermometer to check and adjust as needed.
• Customization: Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, black olives, or cilantro based on your taste preferences.

This recipe offers a delicious combination of textures and flavors, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy savory and spicy Mexican cuisine. Serve these chimichangas with your favorite sides, such as guacamole, sour cream, or salsa, for a complete meal.