Oven-Baked Chimichanga Recipe – Crispy, Easy Mexican-Inspired Dinner

I have always been fascinated by recipes that deliver bold flavors while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare. The Baked Chimichanga is one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends over for a casual gathering. Unlike traditional fried chimichangas, this baked version keeps all the crispy, savory goodness without the extra oil, making it a lighter yet equally satisfying meal.

You will love this recipe because it combines tender, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and flavorful vegetables all wrapped in a perfectly golden tortilla. Every bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes—from the crisp outer layer to the rich, savory filling. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings and can even double as a fun weekend treat when paired with fresh dips and toppings.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap vegetables or adjust the level of spice to suit your preferences. Adding beans, corn, or even extra cheese allows you to create variations that everyone in your household will enjoy. It’s also perfect for meal prep; you can make multiple chimichangas ahead of time and reheat them throughout the week without losing flavor or texture.

One of the best things about this Baked Chimichanga recipe is its affordability. Most ingredients are pantry staples or inexpensive items from your local grocery store. With just a few simple components, you can prepare a filling, flavorful meal that rivals any restaurant version.

Ingredients for the Baked Chimichanga:

• 4 large flour tortillas

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup diced onions

• ½ cup diced bell peppers

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Cooking spray

How to Prepare This Recipe

Preparing Baked Chimichangas may seem elaborate at first glance, but once you break it down step by step, it becomes a quick and enjoyable process. This recipe balances rich flavors with simple techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.

2. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add 1 lb of ground beef. Cook while breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s no longer pink.

3. Add Aromatics: Add ½ cup of diced onions, ½ cup of diced bell peppers, and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

4. Season the Filling: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste over the mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices coat both the beef and vegetables evenly.

5. Combine with Rice and Beans: Add 1 cup of cooked rice and 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans to the skillet. Mix thoroughly so the ingredients are evenly distributed. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

6. Prepare the Tortillas: Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about ½ cup of the beef and vegetable mixture into the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.

7. Fold the Chimichanga: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling completely. Place the rolled chimichanga seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas and filling.

8. Bake the Chimichangas: Lightly spray the tops of the chimichangas with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

9. Serve and Customize: Remove from the oven and allow the chimichangas to cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Top with fresh salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or any preferred toppings.

Quick and Easy

Despite the layered steps, the entire preparation takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. You can even prepare the filling in advance, making it a convenient option for busy evenings.

Customizable

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can add corn, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling, or swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.

Popular with Many People

Baked Chimichangas are loved by families, friends, and anyone who enjoys a hearty, flavorful meal. Their combination of crispy exterior and rich filling makes them a crowd-pleaser at dinners, parties, and casual gatherings alike.

Oven-Baked Chimichanga Recipe – Crispy, Easy Mexican-Inspired Dinner

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These Baked Chimichangas are a healthier twist on the classic fried version, delivering all the flavor and crunch without excessive oil. Packed with seasoned beef, beans, rice, and melty cheese, they are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. This recipe is versatile, customizable, and easy to prepare, making it a staple for any kitchen.

• Author: Lura Skye
• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 30
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced onions
• ½ cup diced bell peppers
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Cooking spray

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula.
3. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
5. Mix in cooked rice and black beans. Cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend thoroughly.
6. Lay a flour tortilla flat. Spoon approximately ½ cup of the filling in the center. Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese over the filling.
7. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly from the bottom, placing seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
8. Lightly spray the tops of the chimichangas with cooking spray. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
9. Let the chimichangas cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Top with fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream if desired.

Notes

Customize the filling by adding vegetables like corn or zucchini.

For extra crispiness, brush lightly with olive oil instead of cooking spray.

Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

FAQs

1. Can I make the chimichangas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chimichangas in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

3. How can I make them spicier?
To add heat, include chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef and vegetable mixture. Adjust gradually to avoid overwhelming the flavors.

4. Can I skip the cheese?
Yes, the recipe works without cheese, but adding it enhances the creamy texture and flavor inside the chimichanga. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.

5. How do I keep them crispy after baking?
Serve immediately for the best texture. If reheating, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes rather than microwaving to maintain crispiness.

6. Are these healthy?
Baking instead of frying reduces the fat content, and using lean ground beef or turkey makes it a nutritious option. You can also add extra vegetables or beans to increase fiber and vitamins.