Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, salt, and pepper)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or salsa
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Oil for frying or brushing (vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in taco seasoning and tomato sauce or salsa. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix in the shredded cheese until well combined.
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly onto each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.
- To Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place chimichangas seam-side down and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
- To Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chimichangas on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Add refried beans or rice to the filling for extra texture.
- Swap beef for shredded chicken or ground turkey.
- Spice it up with jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
- Make mini versions using smaller tortillas for party snacks.
- Freeze before cooking to make ahead and cook straight from frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg