Name: Beef and Cheese Chimichangas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup refried beans; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 6 large flour tortillas; Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking

Crispy on the outside, melty and savory on the inside, these Beef and Cheese Chimichangas are a weeknight dinner hero. Packed with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and wrapped in a golden tortilla shell, they’re a satisfying twist on classic Tex-Mex comfort food. You can bake or fry them, depending on how indulgent you’re feeling, and they always deliver.

If you’ve never made chimichangas at home, you’re in for a treat. They come together with simple ingredients and bring that restaurant-style magic to your kitchen. Customize them with your favorite toppings or keep it classic with sour cream, salsa, and shredded lettuce.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe

This recipe is everything you want when you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and hearty. The filling is rich with flavor from seasoned ground beef and warm spices, while the cheese adds a comforting creaminess that ties it all together. You can fry them for extra crunch or bake them for a lighter version.

They freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep, and they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re planning a game day spread or a busy weeknight meal, chimichangas fit the bill.

What Kind of Tortilla Should I Use?

For the perfect chimichanga, use large flour tortillas. They’re flexible enough to roll without tearing and hold up well during frying or baking. If you’re feeling adventurous, spinach or tomato wraps can add color and flavor. Avoid corn tortillas as they tend to crack when folded and don’t crisp up the same way.

Ingredients for the Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

This dish is all about simple pantry staples that come together with big flavor. The ingredients are basic, but the way they blend makes every bite irresistible.

Ground beef
Taco seasoning
Onion
Garlic
Salsa
Refried beans
Shredded cheddar cheese
Flour tortillas
Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking

How To Make the Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and fragrant. Add taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer until everything is well combined. Stir in salsa and refried beans to create a thick, hearty filling.

Step 2: Fill and Roll the Tortillas

Lay out a flour tortilla and add a generous scoop of the beef mixture to the center. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the sides in and roll up tightly like a burrito, making sure the filling stays inside.

Step 3: Cook Until Crispy

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down. Cook until golden and crisp on all sides. If you prefer baking, place them on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F until crispy and heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Serve Hot

Serve your chimichangas hot with your favorite toppings. Sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and guacamole all make delicious companions.

Serving and Storing Beef and Cheese Chimichangas

This recipe easily serves 4 to 6 people, depending on how generously you fill your tortillas. Serve them fresh from the skillet or oven while they’re warm and crispy.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer so they crisp back up—the microwave works in a pinch but softens the texture. You can also freeze unbaked, assembled chimichangas and cook from frozen.

What to Serve With Beef and Cheese Chimichangas?

Mexican Rice

Fluffy, tomato-infused rice pairs beautifully with chimichangas, balancing the richness of the cheese and beef.

Guacamole and Chips

A fresh and creamy contrast that adds color and coolness to your plate.

Corn Salad

Crisp, sweet corn with lime and a touch of chili powder adds crunch and a hint of spice.

Cilantro Lime Slaw

This refreshing side cuts through the richness of the chimichangas and brings a zesty crunch.

Black Beans

A hearty and healthy addition that rounds out the Tex-Mex theme.

Pico de Gallo

Bright and fresh, this chunky salsa wakes up your taste buds with every bite.

Queso Dip

Perfect for dunking or drizzling over the top if you want to go extra cheesy.

Pickled Jalapeños

Add a spicy kick with tangy sliced jalapeños to keep things exciting.

Want More Tex-Mex Dinner Ideas?

If you love these beef and cheese chimichangas, try these other satisfying recipes next:

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini for a fusion of pasta and enchilada flavors.
Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas for a classic, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli if you’re craving something hearty and comforting.
Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy, soul-warming bowl.
Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos for fun, flavorful hand-held bites.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you fry or bake them? Add any special toppings or swaps?

I love seeing how everyone adds their own twist. Don’t hesitate to ask questions too—we’re all here to help each other cook better.

Explore beautifully curated dinners and quick-fix meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find new ideas every day!

Conclusion

These beef and cheese chimichangas bring all the Tex-Mex flavor you crave with a simple, satisfying preparation that anyone can master. Whether you’re making a batch for a family dinner or prepping ahead for the week, they’re a guaranteed hit. From crispy shell to cheesy center, every bite is worth it.