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Beef and Cheese Chimichanga

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Beef and Cheese Chimichanga: A Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight

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Indulge in the savory goodness of Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, a Tex-Mex favorite that brings together seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas for a mouthwatering culinary experience. This recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavors to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Follow along and bring the taste of the Southwest to your dinner table!

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Ingredients:

For the Meat Filling:

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  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 can (4 ounces) green chiles, drained (optional)

For Assembly:

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  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese, or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:

  1. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  3. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
  4. Stir in the taco seasoning and beef broth, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture has thickened slightly.
  5. If using, stir in the drained green chiles, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Assemble the Chimichangas:

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  1. Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef filling onto the center of each tortilla.
  2. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef filling.
  3. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold the bottom edge up and roll tightly to form a burrito-shaped chimichanga.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully place the assembled chimichangas seam-side down into the hot oil, in batches if necessary, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  6. Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

3. Serve and Enjoy:

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  1. Serve the hot and crispy Beef and Cheese Chimichangas with your favorite toppings such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro.
  2. Enjoy the delicious flavors of the Southwest with each bite of these homemade chimichangas!

Cook’s Tips and Variations:

  • Bake Instead of Fry: For a lighter option, you can bake the assembled chimichangas in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  • Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the meat filling with your favorite ingredients such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or black beans for added texture and flavor.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the meat filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making assembly quick and easy on busy weeknights.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked and seasoned black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version of chimichangas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be used for a more traditional approach to chimichangas. Just make sure to warm them slightly before assembling to prevent cracking.

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2. Can I freeze the assembled chimichangas? Yes, you can freeze the assembled chimichangas before frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

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3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Simply cook and season the poultry as you would the ground beef.

4. How do I reheat leftover chimichangas? To reheat leftover chimichangas, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed.

Treat your taste buds to the bold and delicious flavors of Beef and Cheese Chimichangas, a Tex-Mex classic that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory meat filling, gooey melted cheese, and crispy exterior, each bite is a fiesta of flavor that will have you coming back for more. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Southwest with these homemade chimichangas!