Baked Beef Chimichangas: Crispy Mexican Comfort Food

If you love crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed Mexican food, these Baked Beef Chimichangas are a must-try! Filled with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and wrapped in a golden, crispy tortilla, these baked chimichangas are a lighter yet equally delicious alternative to deep-fried versions.

Perfect for family Mexican dinners, these ground beef chimichanga recipes are easy to make, kid-friendly, and customizable. Whether you’re looking for Latin American food recipes, gluten-free Mexican recipes, or simply a comforting weeknight meal, this dish delivers big flavors with minimal effort.

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What Are Chimichangas?

Chimichangas are a Mexican-inspired dish featuring a stuffed and fried tortilla filled with beef, cheese, beans, or chicken. This baked version keeps the crispy texture while being healthier and easier to make at home.

Whether you’re looking for chimichanga recipes, quesadillas recipes, or gluten-free Mexican recipes, these beef and cheese chimichangas are a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Without Frying: Baked instead of fried, but still golden and crunchy!
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for a fun family Mexican dinner.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep.
• Customizable: Use different fillings like chicken, beans, or veggies.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make in advance and freeze for quick meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chimichangas:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup salsa (or canned diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing tortillas before baking)

For Serving:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (for cooking the beef filling)
• Baking sheet (for baking the chimichangas)
• Pastry brush (for brushing oil on tortillas)
• Mixing bowl (for combining ingredients)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef and diced onion.
3. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft (about 5–7 minutes).
4. Drain excess grease, then add garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Stir in salsa and cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before adding the shredded cheese.

Step 2: Assemble the Chimichangas

1. Lay out a flour tortilla and spoon about ½ cup of the beef mixture into the center.
2. Fold in the sides and then roll the tortilla tightly into a burrito shape.
3. Place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
4. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden & Crispy

1. Brush the chimichangas with olive oil to help them crisp up.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Top with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or jalapeños.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm!

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Tips for the Best Baked Chimichangas

• Don’t overfill the tortillas—this makes them harder to roll.
• Use a hot oven (400°F) for maximum crispiness without frying.
• Brush tortillas with olive oil or melted butter before baking for a golden finish.
• Use a toothpick to secure tortillas if they unroll while baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold tortillas: Warm them slightly to prevent cracking.
• Not sealing the edges well: Make sure to tuck in the sides when rolling.
• Skipping the oil: Brushing oil ensures crispy, golden tortillas.

Variations & Flavor Twists

• Chicken & Cheese Chimichangas: Swap beef for shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Spicy Chimichangas: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the filling.
• Vegetarian Chimichangas: Use black beans, rice, and bell peppers instead of meat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free Mexican recipe.

How to Store & Make Ahead

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap unbaked chimichangas in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Beef Chimichangas pair well with:

• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice
• Refried beans or black beans
• A fresh side salad with avocado dressing
• Homemade tortilla chips and salsa

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FAQs

Can I air-fry these chimichangas?

Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

What’s the best cheese for chimichangas?

A Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese works best.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

How do I make these extra crispy?

Brush with more olive oil or melted butter before baking for extra crunch.

Conclusion

These Baked Beef Chimichangas are a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family Mexican dinners, gluten-free Mexican recipes, or meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a ground beef chimichanga recipe, a healthier baked chimichanga alternative, or just a delicious way to enjoy Latin American food recipes, this dish is easy, flavorful, and always a crowd favorite.

Try this beef and cheese chimichanga recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

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