Mexican Meat Mix Chimichangas
Mexican Meat Mix Chimichangas feature tender shredded meat combined with spicy green chilies and salsa, fried to golden perfection—perfect for those craving bold flavors and crispy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the meat, then cool and shred it.
- Set aside the shredded meat.
- Melt vegetable shortening in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and green chilies to the skillet and cook until onions are tender.
- Add green chili salsa, garlic powder, flour, salt, and ground cumin to the skillet.
- Cook for 1 minute over medium-low heat, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the meat juices from the roast.
- Add the shredded meat to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Wrap the meat mixture in tortilla shells.
- Fry the filled tortillas at 365°F until golden brown, or serve burrito style.
- Optional: Smother the tortilla with meat sauce, dab sour cream on top, and serve with shredded lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of beef and pork. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the shredded meat. You can also add black beans or corn to the mixture for extra texture and flavor. If you prefer a spicier version, add more green chilies or some diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chimichangas with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal. Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Green Chile Stew or can be enjoyed with a side of sour cream and guacamole for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chimichangas in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Meat Mix Chimichangas contains roughly 401 calories, with 18g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% 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 freeze the chimichangas before frying them?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but un-fried chimichangas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, simply fry them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What type of tortillas work best for chimichangas?
Flour tortillas are typically preferred for chimichangas as they hold up well during frying and provide a soft texture. You can use medium or large tortillas depending on your filling amount, but ensure they are pliable to prevent tearing.
How can I make these chimichangas vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can also use black beans or lentils for protein. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavors of the veggies.
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).