Air Fryer Chimichangas

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

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Air Fryer Chimichangas