Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal idea? These Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are sure to hit the spot! Packed with savory beef, gooey cheese, and flavorful seasonings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that your whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large flour tortillas
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
• Add the garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
• Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
• Place a generous scoop of the beef and cheese mixture onto a tortilla, then fold the sides in and roll it up tightly.
• Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the chimichangas until crispy and golden brown on all sides.
• Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner alternative.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

• Can I make these ahead of time?

You can assemble the chimichangas ahead of time and fry them just before serving for convenience.

• Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can bake the chimichangas in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy.

• What other toppings can I add?

Try adding diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Helpful tips:

• For added flavor, try seasoning the beef with taco seasoning or cumin.
• Make sure to seal the chimichangas tightly before frying to prevent the filling from spilling out.
• Serve with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.
• For a vegetarian version, you can swap the ground beef for black beans or meatless crumbles.

Expert Secrets:

• To ensure the chimichangas are crispy, make sure the oil is hot before adding them to the pan.
• Keep a close eye on the chimichangas while frying to prevent them from burning.
• Try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the chimichangas before serving for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Experiment with different types of salsa for dipping, such as a spicy chipotle or fresh pico de gallo.