Beef and Cheese Chimichanga

I grew up with my Mom making Mexican dishes, however, I have to admit that when I moved out on my own I started going to a certain Mexican restaurant in town. When I tried Chimichangas, I totally fell in love! My Mom was a fantastic cook, however, this dish was unlike any I had ever tasted.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1 can (16 ounces) refried beans

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

3 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce, divided

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

12 flour tortillas (10 inches), warmed.

1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies.

1 can (4 ounces) chopped jalapeno peppers.

Oil for deep-fat frying.

1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.

Instructions

In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in the beans, onion, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic and cumin.

Spoon about 1/3 cup of beef mixture off-center on each tortilla. Fold edge nearest filling up and over to cover. Fold in both sides and roll up. Fasten with toothpicks. In a large saucepan, combine the chilies, peppers and remaining tomato sauce; heat through.

In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat 1 in. of oil to 375°. Fry the chimichangas for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes on each side or until browned. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with cheese. Serve with sauce

Enjoy!