Crispy Beef & Cheese Chimichangas (Air Fryer Recipe)
Intro:
Chimichangas are a Tex-Mex favorite—essentially deep-fried burritos. But with an air fryer, you get all the crispiness without the excess oil! These chimichangas are filled with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a touch of salsa, wrapped tightly in a tortilla and crisped to golden perfection. Whether it’s for dinner, a party snack, or a fun meal prep, these chimis will be your new air fryer favorite!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup salsa (your favorite kind)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
4 large flour tortillas (8–10 inch)
Olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing
Instructions
Cook the Beef Filling (10 minutes)
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add salsa and cook another 2 minutes until heated through.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Assemble the Chimichangas (5 minutes)
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
Spoon about ½ cup of the beef mixture in the center.
Sprinkle about ¼ cup shredded cheese over the beef.
Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly like a burrito.
Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Air Fry the Chimichangas (10–12 minutes)
Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly brush or spray each chimichanga with olive oil or melted butter for crispiness.
Place chimichangas seam-side down in the air fryer basket (do not overcrowd).
Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Optional Toppings & Dips
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Guacamole or sliced avocado
Fresh cilantro
Extra salsa or pico de gallo
Hot sauce
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Prep: 10 mins
Cook beef: 10 mins
Air fry: 10–12 mins
To Make Ahead or Freeze
Assemble chimichangas and freeze unbaked (wrapped in foil/plastic).
Air fry from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes.