Streamlined Chimichanga
A quick and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring seasoned ground beef wrapped in tortillas, baked to golden perfection, served with guacamole and picante sauce for added zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion and drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, ground cumin, oregano, and picante sauce.
- Simmer for 5 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated.
- If using margarine, brush one side of each tortilla with melted margarine.
- Spoon heaping 1/3 cup of meat mixture onto the unbuttered side of each tortilla.
- Fold two sides over the filling and then fold the ends down to seal.
- Place seam side down in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 475°F (245°C) for about 13 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve topped with guacamole and additional picante sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. If you like heat, add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before assembling the chimichangas to ensure a great flavor. To make it easier, prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chimichangas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. A fresh green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the flavors. They are also delicious with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Explore more Mexican recipes to create a themed dinner night with family and friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a crispier texture, you can also reheat them in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Streamlined Chimichanga contains roughly 623 calories, with 28g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (205% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (124% of the Daily Value), and calcium (87% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 35g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 these chimichangas in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chimichangas ahead of time. Assemble them, place them in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner option.
What can I use instead of picante sauce?
If you don't have picante sauce, you can substitute it with salsa or even a homemade tomato sauce mixed with some diced green chilies and spices. This will give you a similar flavor profile while allowing for customization based on your spice preference.
How do I make these chimichangas vegetarian?
To make vegetarian chimichangas, replace the ground beef with a combination of black beans, corn, and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables with the same spices used in the recipe for a flavorful filling. This option is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
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).