Baked Chimichangas are the ultimate fusion of crispy, golden-brown tortillas and a flavorful filling of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and a hint of heat from diced green chilies. The oven-baked method ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside oozy and comforting. Paired with a side of cool sour cream and tangy salsa, these chimichangas create a harmonious combination of textures and flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on your usual taco night, baked chimichangas are the perfect choice. Their crispy exterior contrasts wonderfully with the melty cheese and savory filling, creating a meal that everyone will love. Plus, they are easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and a crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef or chicken
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
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1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
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8 large flour tortillas
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1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
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1/2 cup salsa (for serving)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Add ground beef or chicken to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in taco seasoning, green chilies, and a small amount of water according to the seasoning packet instructions. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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Remove from heat and mix in cream cheese, cheddar, and Mexican cheese blend until melted and smooth.
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Place a tortilla on a flat surface and spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling into the center. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
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Arrange the chimichangas seam-side down on a baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve with sour cream and salsa on the side.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
What Makes Baked Chimichangas Healthier?
Traditional chimichangas are deep-fried, which means they absorb a lot of oil, adding unnecessary fat and calories to the dish. On the other hand, baking the chimichangas offers a much lighter version while still giving you that crispy crunch. In fact, by choosing to bake instead of fry, you can significantly reduce the fat content, making this dish a better option for those looking to enjoy comfort food without the guilt.
Baked chimichangas retain all the flavors you crave in a fried chimichanga, but they come with the added benefit of being much lower in calories. Not only do they offer a healthier alternative, but they also provide a satisfying crunch thanks to a quick brush of butter or oil before baking. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or cooking for a gathering, baked chimichangas will definitely leave you and your guests satisfied.
Why Choose Baked Chimichangas?
There are many reasons to choose baked over fried chimichangas. First and foremost, it’s a healthier alternative. The calorie and fat content in baked chimichangas is far lower compared to their deep-fried counterparts. Plus, the flavors of the filling really shine through without the overwhelming richness of frying. Whether you’re watching your calories or simply prefer a lighter option, baked chimichangas are a perfect choice.
Another advantage of baked chimichangas is that they are easy to prepare. While deep-frying involves extra equipment and more effort, baking requires only a few simple steps. Once you’ve filled and rolled your tortillas, a quick bake in the oven will turn them into a golden, crispy delight. This simplicity makes baked chimichangas an excellent weeknight meal or a go-to dish for busy cooks.
What’s Inside a Baked Chimichanga?
Baked chimichangas are versatile and can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients, depending on your taste preferences. Traditionally, they’re stuffed with seasoned meat (such as chicken or beef), beans, cheese, and sometimes rice. For this healthier version, you can choose lean meats like rotisserie chicken or even make them vegetarian by swapping the meat for extra veggies and beans.
The great thing about baked chimichangas is that they allow for customization. If you prefer a spicy kick, you can add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the filling. If you want to make them a bit heartier, you can use black beans or pinto beans to add protein and fiber. The possibilities are endless, and the dish can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs or preferences.
How to Make Baked Chimichangas
The preparation for baked chimichangas is quick and simple. Start by sautéing your chosen protein (ground beef, chicken, or beans) with onions, garlic, and spices. You can use store-bought taco seasoning for convenience, or make your own with chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a more flavorful kick. Once the meat or beans are cooked, combine them with cheese and sour cream to create a creamy, flavorful filling.
The next step is to assemble the chimichangas. Lay out large flour tortillas, spread a layer of refried beans down the center, and spoon in the meat mixture. Top it with some shredded cheese and fold in the sides of the tortilla before rolling it up tightly. For a crispy finish, brush each chimichanga with a little melted butter or oil, then bake them in the oven until golden and crispy.
Air Frying: A Quick Alternative
If you’re looking for an even quicker way to achieve a crisp, golden finish, you can air fry your chimichangas. Simply spray them with a light coating of oil and cook them in an air fryer at 400°F for about 4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Air frying will give you that fried crunch with a fraction of the calories, making it an excellent option for those with an air fryer.
What to Serve With Baked Chimichangas?
Baked chimichangas are a hearty dish on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to round out the meal. A fresh and tangy homemade guacamole is a must-have, and don’t forget the restaurant-style salsa for dipping. If you’re in the mood for something extra, consider adding some Mexican street corn or a crisp, refreshing corn salad. For a side of rice, Spanish rice works well to complement the dish.
To complete the meal, you could add a sweet treat such as Million Dollar Bars or churros for a fun, Mexican-inspired dessert.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about baked chimichangas is how easily they can be adapted. If you want to keep it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use more beans, corn, and veggies. For those who like a bit of heat, add jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy salsa on top before baking. If you prefer a different type of protein, ground turkey or even shrimp could be used instead of chicken or beef. The choice is yours, and the flavor combinations are endless.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Baked Chimichangas
Baked chimichangas offer all the great flavors of the classic dish without the extra calories and fat from frying. With the crispy exterior you crave and a flavorful filling, baked chimichangas are a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice taste. They’re easy to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. Plus, you can air fry them for an even faster and crispier result. Whether you stick to the classic filling of chicken and cheese or get creative with your toppings and fillings, baked chimichangas are a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.