Chimachanga
Chimichangas are crispy, flavorful Mexican-inspired rolled tortillas filled with tender beef and spices. Perfect for a satisfying main course, they combine savory flavors with a crunchy texture, topped with cheese and fresh toppings. Great for gatherings or a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put diced roast beef, green chilies, chopped onion, cumin, garlic, and the bouillon cube in a pan with just enough water to cover and simmer until onions are done.
- Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the mixture to thicken.
- Wrap the mixture in flour tortillas like enchiladas.
- Place the wrapped tortillas far apart on a greased cookie sheet.
- Brush the tortillas with melted butter and bake at 350°F until brown.
- Top with cheese, lettuce, sour cream, or your preferred toppings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier chimichanga, consider adding jalapeños or substituting the green chilies with spicier varieties. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked roast beef can be used for a quicker preparation. You can also swap out the beef for shredded chicken or beans for a vegetarian option. Experimenting with seasonings can enhance the flavors, such as adding a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chimichangas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with toppings like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream. For a refreshing touch, consider a side salad with lime dressing or some classic Mexican bread to soak up any extra sauce. These flavors complement other Mexican recipes like Nachos Grande or Pork Chops Mexicana.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them for quicker reheating, but this may result in a softer tortilla.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chimachanga contains roughly 334 calories, with 10g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (100% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 684mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas ahead of time. Just refrigerate them before baking. When ready to cook, simply brush with butter and bake as directed. This makes for an easy meal prep option for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work well for chimichangas. Just be aware that they may be more fragile, so handle them carefully during assembly. Alternatively, whole wheat tortillas are a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor.
How do I make chimichangas crispy?
To achieve crispy chimichangas, make sure to brush the outside of the tortillas with melted butter before baking. This helps them brown and become crisp in the oven. For an extra crunch, you can also fry them in oil after baking, but this adds more calories.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).