Discover a healthier twist on the classic Tex-Mex favorite with these Air Fryer Chimichangas. By utilizing an air fryer, you can achieve a deliciously crispy exterior without the extra grease of deep frying. Packed with seasoned Angus beef, refried beans, green chilies, and gooey cheese, these chimichangas make a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
🥩 1 1/2 pounds Certified Angus Beef ® ground beef, 80% lean (Brand: Certified Angus Beef)
🌮 1 packet taco seasoning (Brand: La Preferida)
🌾 1 teaspoon canola oil (Generic)
🌶️ 1 4-ounce can diced green chilies (Brand: La Preferida)
🫘 1 16-ounce can refried beans (Brand: La Preferida)
🧀 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Generic)
🌯 6 10-inch burrito-sized tortillas (Brand: La Preferida)
🧴 Non-stick spray (Generic, similar to PAM)
🍅 Salsa, for serving (Generic)
🍶 Sour cream, for serving (Brand: Daisy)
🌿 Fresh cilantro, for garnish
💧 Water, a small amount for deglazing using the empty green chili can
Instructions
1- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Heat the canola oil in a stainless steel frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and allow one side to sit undisturbed to create a caramelized crust.
2- Season the Beef:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef.
- Gently break up the top layer with a wooden spatula, preserving the crust below.
3- Cook and Add Chilies:
- Flip the beef to brown the other side.
- Once nearly cooked, add the diced green chilies, mixing well.
4- Deglaze and Transfer:
- Pour a small amount of water into the pan to deglaze, scraping up bits from the pan.
- Transfer the mixture to a clear glass bowl once the liquid reduces.
5- Assemble the Chimichangas:
- Lay a tortilla on a clean surface.
- Spread a layer of refried beans, then add a portion of the beef mixture.
- Top with cheddar cheese.
6- Roll the Tortillas:
- Fold the sides inward and roll tightly from the bottom up to form a burrito.
7- Prepare for Air Frying:
- Place the chimichangas seam side down on a metal baking sheet.
- Spray them with non-stick spray for crispiness.
8- Cook in the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer to 375°F.
- Insert the baking sheet and air fry for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes (8-10 minutes for chimichangas, estimated 10 minutes for beef)
Total Time: 38 minutes
Servings: 6 chimichangas
Nutrition Estimates per Serving (Approximation):
- Calories: 450
- Proteins: 25g
- Fats: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
Equipment:
- Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer
- Stainless steel frying pan
- Walnut End-Grain Cutting Board
- Wooden flat spatula
- Clear glass mixing bowls
- Metal baking sheet
- Handheld can opener
- Light yellow ceramic serving plate
- Metal fork and knife (matching "German Steel Knife Set")
- White cloth oven mitt
Cooking Tips
- Browning: Allow the beef to sit undisturbed for optimal caramelization.
- Deglazing Technique: Enhances flavor by incorporating caramelized bits.
- Rolling Technique: Secure fillings by folding in the sides before rolling firmly.
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YouTube channel - Certified Angus Beef ®: https://www.youtube.com/@CertifiedAngusBeefTestKitchen