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If you’re craving a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Mexican dish, look no further than these Beef and Bean Chimichangas. These deep-fried delights are packed with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a party, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients for Beef and Bean Chimichangas
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 can refried beans
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp oregano
- 10 (10-inch) flour tortillas
- 24 oz tomato sauce
- 4 oz diced green chilis (canned)
- 4 oz chopped jalapeños (canned)
- 1 ½ cups shredded taco blend cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions for Making Beef and Bean Chimichangas
1. Cook the Beef
Start by adding the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef until it’s fully browned, ensuring all the pink is gone. Once cooked, drain off any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling.
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2. Prepare the Filling
Next, add the refried beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ½ cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together in the skillet with the beef. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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3. Warm the Tortillas
To make the tortillas pliable and easier to fold, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. This step is crucial to prevent them from tearing when assembling the chimichangas.
4. Assemble the Chimichangas
Spoon an even amount of the beef and bean mixture into the center of each tortilla. Fold one end of the tortilla over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll it tightly to form a packet. Secure each chimichanga with a toothpick to ensure they stay intact during frying.
5. Fry the Chimichangas
Heat about an inch of oil in a deep-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the oil. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, which should take just a few minutes. Be sure to monitor them closely to avoid burning. After frying, transfer the chimichangas to a paper towel-lined tray to drain any excess oil.
6. Prepare the Spicy Sauce
While the chimichangas are draining, prepare the spicy sauce. In a saucepan, combine the remaining tomato sauce, diced green chilis, and chopped jalapeños. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s warmed through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy
To serve, ladle the warm spicy sauce over the crispy chimichangas and sprinkle with the shredded taco blend cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Additional Tips for Perfect Chimichangas
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of jalapeños or use mild green chilis.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the chimichangas in the oven at 400°F until crispy, instead of frying.
These Beef and Bean Chimichangas are a crowd-pleaser with their crispy exterior and savory filling. Pair them with guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 10 chimichangas
Calories: 400 per serving