Sizzling Golden Crispy Beef Chimichangas Recipe: Fiesta in Every Bite

Sizzling with flavor and packed with mouthwatering golden crispy beef chimichangas, this recipe promises a culinary adventure that’ll make taste buds dance.

Mexican-inspired cuisine brings excitement to any dinner table with its bold and vibrant ingredients.

Crisp tortillas envelop seasoned beef in a delightful embrace, creating a perfect balance of textures and spices.

The golden exterior gives way to a juicy, savory filling that will transport you straight to a bustling street market.

Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and rich, robust flavors that blend seamlessly.

Simple techniques and readily available ingredients mean you can whip up this restaurant-worthy dish in your own kitchen.

Grab your apron and get ready to impress with these irresistible chimichangas that turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.

Plating Ideas for Beef Chimichangas

• Savor the Sidekick Delights: Pair these golden chimichangas with Mexican-style rice for a complete meal that bursts with flavor.
• Garnish with Freshness: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, diced onions, and sliced jalapeños on top to add bright, zesty notes and extra crunch.
• Create a Cooling Companion: Serve alongside a dollop of sour cream or fresh guacamole to balance the rich, crispy beef and spicy sauce.
• Elevate with Salsa Selection: Offer homemade or store-bought salsa verde or pico de gallo to complement the chimichangas' robust flavors and add a tangy kick.

Storing & Reheating Golden Crispy Beef Chimichangas

• Refrigerate Right: Store cooked chimichangas in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Keep sauce separately to maintain crispiness.
• Freeze for Later: Wrap individual chimichangas in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat with Care: Warm in oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispy texture. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy shells.
• Smart Prep Trick: Make beef and sauce in advance. Assemble chimichangas just before baking for maximum freshness and crunch.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 450 kcal

Servings: 7

Ingredients for Golden Crispy Beef Chimichangas

• Mexican Shredded Beef: Slow-cooked tender protein packed with robust southwestern flavors, choose beef chuck or brisket for maximum tenderness and rich taste.
• Olive Oil: Helps seal in meat moisture and adds subtle fruity undertones during preparation.

• Large Flour Tortillas: Soft, pliable wrapper that holds ingredients securely, select fresh tortillas without cracks for perfect rolling.
• White Rice: Optional base layer adding subtle texture and mild flavor, long-grain works best.
• Refried Beans: Creamy complementary layer providing earthy richness and protein boost.

• Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts smoothly with mild, buttery profile, select full-fat version for best consistency.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy cooling element to balance spicy components, choose full-fat traditional style.
• Butter: Creates rich foundation for sauce with deep, golden flavor.
• Cheese (For Sauce): Sharp variety enhances sauce's complexity, aged cheddar recommended.

• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens sauce and creates smooth base, ensure fresh and lump-free.
• Chicken Broth: Provides liquid base with subtle savory undertones.
• Green Chilies: Introduces mild heat and bright pepper flavor, roasted versions offer deeper taste.
• Lime Juice: Adds bright, acidic balance to rich ingredients.
• Hot Sauce: Optional heat enhancer for personalized spice level.
• Spices: Blend creating depth and warmth, fresh ground recommended.

Gear Needed to Make Beef Chimichangas

• Large skillet: Perfect for preparing the Mexican shredded beef with deep, rich flavors.
• Baking sheet: Essential for creating crispy, golden chimichangas in the oven.
• Wire rack: Helps elevate chimichangas for even browning and crispness.
• Saucepan: Needed for crafting the delicious, creamy sauce with perfect consistency.
• Whisk: Crucial for smoothly blending flour and broth without lumps.
• Measuring cups: Ensures precise ingredient quantities for consistent results.
• Brush: Used to coat chimichangas with olive oil for that beautiful golden finish.
• Tongs: Helpful for rolling and handling tortillas and chimichangas with ease.

How to Make Golden Crispy Chimichangas

• Flavor Foundation

Craft tender, succulent Mexican shredded beef packed with rich spices and deep character. Let the meat marinate and develop complex taste profiles that will elevate your entire dish.

• Tortilla Canvas

Select large, soft flour tortillas that can cradle your delectable beef filling. Spread a generous layer of tender meat across the center, creating a hearty and inviting base.

• Rolling Technique

Fold the tortilla edges inward with gentle precision, creating a snug package that will transform into a crispy golden delight. Ensure each chimichanga is tightly sealed to prevent filling from escaping during cooking.

• Crispy Transformation

Place rolled chimichangas on a baking sheet, brushing each with a light olive oil coating. Bake in a hot oven until the exterior turns a gorgeous golden brown with delightful crispy edges.

• Creamy Companion Sauce

Whip up a luxurious sauce blending smooth cheese, tangy sour cream, and zesty spices. This velvety complement will drench your chimichangas in irresistible flavor, creating a mouthwatering final touch.

• Garnish Glory

Crown your crispy masterpieces with fresh herbs, vibrant salsa, or cool sour cream. These final flourishes will transform your chimichangas from delicious to absolutely spectacular.

Cooking Tips for Golden Chimichanga Success

• Replace shredded beef with pulled chicken, carnitas, or ground turkey for a quick protein alternative.
• Use large flour tortillas for easier rolling, or corn tortillas for a traditional Mexican-style crunch. Warm tortillas slightly to prevent cracking.
• Adjust spice by selecting mild or hot salsa, adding extra chili peppers, or including more hot sauce in the creamy sauce.
• Prepare beef and sauce one day ahead, storing separately in airtight containers. Assemble chimichangas just before baking to maintain maximum crispiness.
• Swap beef with black beans, roasted vegetables, or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious meatless version.

Crunchy Beef Chimichangas Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Mexican cuisine shines through this golden crispy beef chimichanga recipe with authentic flavors and irresistible crunch. Packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crisp tortilla edges, these chimichangas will satisfy hungry diners seeking a delicious southwestern meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 recipe Mexican Shredded Beef
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 6 tortillas, burrito-size (10-inch)
• ½ 4-oz can mild chopped green chilies
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¼–½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup cilantro lime rice (optional)
• ¼ cup black or pinto beans (optional)
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsps flour
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ¼ tsp pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Hot sauce or cayenne pepper to taste
• Pico de gallo (optional)
• Guacamole (optional)
• Salsa (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Hot sauce (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and position wire rack on baking sheet for optimal heat circulation and crispiness.
2. Tortilla Assembly: Lay flour tortillas flat and create a foundational layer using cooked rice and refried beans across the center of each tortilla.
3. Filling Distribution: Layer Mexican shredded beef evenly over rice and beans, then generously cover with shredded cheese to ensure complete flavor coverage.
4. Rolling Technique: Carefully fold tortilla sides inward, then tightly roll from bottom to create sealed, compact bundles with no filling exposure.
5. Pre-Baking Preparation: Position rolled chimichangas seam-side down on wire rack, brushing exterior thoroughly with olive oil to encourage golden browning.
6. Baking Process: Slide baking sheet into preheated oven, rotating midway through 18-20 minute cooking cycle to guarantee uniform crispness and color.
7. Sauce Creation: Simultaneously prepare complementary sauce by melting butter and olive oil, whisking in flour, then gradually incorporating broth and spices until smooth and thickened.
8. Sauce Finishing: Remove sauce from heat, incorporating green chilies, additional cheese, sour cream, lime juice, and hot sauce to enhance depth of flavor.
9. Final Presentation: Allow chimichangas to rest briefly after removing from oven, then plate and generously drizzle with prepared sauce, garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or extra sour cream.

Notes

• Seal Edges Securely: Ensure tortilla edges are tightly folded and sealed to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
• Oil Brush Technique: Gently brush olive oil evenly to achieve a uniform golden-brown and crispy exterior without oversaturating.
• Rack Placement Matters: Using a wire rack allows hot air circulation, preventing soggy bottoms and promoting even crispiness.
• Sauce Temperature Control: Whisk continuously while cooking to prevent flour from burning and create a smooth, lump-free sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg