Crispy Beef & Cheese Chimichangas ( High Protein)

These crispy beef and cheese chimichangas are the perfect comfort food, combining tender seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy fried tortillas. Whether for a weeknight meal or a gathering, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Serve them with sour cream, salsa, or your favorite toppings!

Ingredients:
8 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
1 lb. ground beef (80/20)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup salsa (optional, for topping)
Sour cream (optional, for serving)
1–2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions, breaking the beef apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 8 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked through.
2. Season the Meat:
   Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let the mixture simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the seasoning is fully combined and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Chimichangas:
   Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous amount of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Roll the Chimichangas:
   Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly, securing the filling inside. Repeat for all tortillas.
5. Fry the Chimichangas:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add each chimichanga seam-side down. Fry for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them carefully.
6. Drain and Serve:
   Remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Serve the chimichangas with salsa and sour cream on the side. You can also sprinkle with chopped cilantro for an added freshness.

Substitution Tips:

Ground Turkey or Chicken: You can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this recipe.
Cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor and spice.
Toppings: Top with guacamole, jalapenos, or your favorite hot sauce for a customizable experience.

Variations:
Vegetarian Chimichangas: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or beans for a meat-free option.
Baked Chimichangas: For a healthier version, you can brush the rolled chimichangas with oil and bake them in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes or until crispy.

Storage Information:
Leftovers: Store any leftover chimichangas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. For frozen chimichangas, bake from frozen at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.