Beef Chimichangas Delight (Print Version)

Crispy chimichangas filled with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and a flavorful chili-tomato sauce.

# Ingredients:

Meat and Protein

01 - 1 pound lean ground beef

Vegetables and Aromatics

02 - 1/2 cup diced onion
03 - 1 garlic clove, minced
04 - 1 jalapeno, minced

Dry Spices and Herbs

05 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Canned Goods

08 - 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
09 - 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
10 - 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
11 - 1 (4.5-ounce) can green chilies

Bakery

12 - 8 (10-inch) flour tortillas

Dairy

13 - 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese

Oils and Fats

14 - Vegetable oil for frying

Garnishes

15 - Fresh cilantro
16 - Sour cream

Miscellaneous

17 - Wooden toothpicks to secure

# Instructions:

01 - In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. When mostly cooked, add diced onion and continue cooking until the onion softens and beef is fully browned.
02 - Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add refried beans and 1/2 cup of tomato sauce from the 8-ounce can. Mix thoroughly and remove from heat.
04 - In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1/2 cup tomato sauce from the 8-ounce can with the entire 15-ounce can of tomato sauce. Add green chilies and minced jalapeno. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
05 - If tortillas are stiff, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for about 20 seconds to increase pliability.
06 - Place approximately 1/3 cup filling near one edge of each tortilla. Fold the edge nearest the filling over, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks. Repeat for all tortillas.
07 - Fill a Dutch oven or suitable frying pan with about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat to 375°F (190°C).
08 - Fry two chimichangas at a time for approximately 2 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
09 - Top each chimichanga with shredded cheese, warm sauce, sour cream, and fresh cilantro before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Heating the tortillas ensures they do not crack when folded and rolled.