Description
Fried Chimichangas are crispy, golden Tex-Mex wraps packed with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and beans—perfect for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
8 oz Oaxaca cheese, shredded (or Monterey Jack)
8–10 large flour tortillas
Vegetable oil, for frying
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional for serving: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, lime wedges
Instructions
1. Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Season: Add cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onion softens.
3. Build the filling: Stir in diced tomatoes and black beans. Simmer 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and fold in the shredded Oaxaca cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble: Lay a tortilla flat. Spoon filling into the lower center. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly into a sealed wrap. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
5. Heat oil: Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry: Carefully place chimichangas seam-side down in the oil. Fry 2–3 minutes per side, turning gently, until deep golden and crisp.
7. Drain + serve: Transfer to a paper towel-lined tray. Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
For best crunch, keep oil around 350°F (175°C). Too cool = greasy; too hot = fast browning without heating the center.
Let the filling cool slightly before wrapping to prevent soggy tortillas.
Bake option: Brush with oil and bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air fryer option: Brush or spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg