Family Favorite Beef and Cheese Chimichanga

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce (divided)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 12 flour tortillas (10 inches in diameter), warmed
  • 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
  • 1 can (4 ounces) chopped jalapeño peppers
  • Oil for deep frying
  • 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess oil.
  2. Add refried beans, chopped onion, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, chili powder, minced garlic, and ground cumin to the beef. Mix well.
  3. Lay out the warmed tortillas. Spoon approximately 1/3 cup of the beef mixture slightly off-center on each tortilla. Fold the edge closest to the filling over the mixture, then fold the left and right sides, and roll up the chimichanga. Secure each with toothpicks.
  4. In a saucepan, combine the chopped green chilies, chopped jalapeño peppers, and the remaining tomato sauce. Heat the mixture until warmed through.
  5. Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 375°F. Carefully place chimichangas in the hot oil and fry for 1.5-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chimichangas. Serve with the spicy sauce on the side or poured over the top, as desired.

Enjoy this beloved family dish with your loved ones!