Crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

 Ingredients

 Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

 Extras optional but recommended

• ½ cup salsa
• ½ cup refried beans

 For frying

• Vegetable oil (for deep or shallow frying)

 Instructions

1. Cook the beef

• Heat a pan over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
• Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add flavor

• Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well, then stir in salsa and refried beans (if using).
• Let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes.

3. Add cheese

• Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.

4. Assemble chimichangas

• Place a tortilla on a flat surface.
• Add a portion of the beef mixture in the center.
• Fold in the sides, then roll tightly like a burrito.

5. Fry until crispy

• Heat oil in a deep pan (medium-high heat).
• Place chimichangas seam-side down.
• Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
• Remove and drain on paper towels.

 Serving Ideas

Serve hot with:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Extra salsa
• Fresh cilantro

 Tips

• For a healthier option, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, brushing lightly with oil.
• Don’t overfill tortillas to prevent breaking.
• Keep finished chimichangas warm in the oven while frying the rest.