Description
Deliciously crispy baked beef chimichangas made with seasoned ground beef, aromatic spices, and melted cheese wrapped in flour tortillas and baked to golden perfection. This easy oven-baked recipe offers a healthier alternative to frying while delivering authentic Mexican flavors, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup canned diced green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Assembly
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a baking sheet to prepare for baking the chimichangas.
- Cook the beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef and finely chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add spices and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Mix in tomato sauce and green chilies: Incorporate the tomato sauce and diced green chilies to the beef mixture, cooking an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly for easier handling.
- Assemble the chimichangas: Lay a tortilla flat on a surface and spoon a generous portion of the beef filling down the center. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards and tightly roll it up to form a burrito-shaped chimichanga.
- Prepare for baking: Place each rolled chimichanga seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil to help achieve a crispy, golden exterior during baking.
- Bake the chimichangas: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the tortillas turn golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let rest briefly to cool slightly. Serve topped with your choice of sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- For an extra crispy texture, broil the chimichangas for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Leftover beef filling makes a great addition to tacos, burrito bowls, or as a standalone dip.
- Use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas to create a healthier meal option.
