Weight Watchers Beef Chimichangas
A crispy, cheesy, and satisfying Tex-Mex dish made Weight Watchers-friendly!

Introduction

These Weight Watchers-friendly chimichangas are crispy on the outside, packed with seasoned beef, refried beans, and gooey cheese, and topped with delicious queso blanco dip. They are baked instead of fried, keeping them light, lower in fat, and still super tasty!

Ingredients (Makes 8 Chimichangas)

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90-95% lean, I used 93%)
  • 1 oz packet taco seasoning
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ cup salsa (choose a more liquid-y, less chunky brand)
  • 8 (8-inch) lower-cal/carb flour tortillas (I use La Banderita Carb Counter Soft Taco Flour Tortillas)
  • 1½ cups fat-free refried beans
  • 2 oz shredded 2% milk sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup queso blanco dip (such as Tostitos Queso Blanco)
  • Cooking spray or avocado oil spray

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Filling

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink.
  • Drain any excess fat and add taco seasoning, water, and salsa.
  • Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well combined.
  • Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Assemble the Chimichangas

  • Preheat oven to 400°F.
  • Warm tortillas slightly (microwave for 15-20 seconds) to make them more pliable.
  • Spread 3 tbsp of refried beans on each tortilla.
  • Add about ¼ cup of the seasoned beef mixture on top of the beans.
  • Sprinkle with ½ oz of shredded cheese per chimichanga.
  • Roll up the tortillas by folding in the sides and then rolling tightly.

3. Bake the Chimichangas

  • Place chimichangas seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or avocado oil spray.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve with Queso Blanco

  • Heat queso blanco dip in the microwave or stovetop.
  • Drizzle 2 tbsp queso blanco over each chimichanga before serving.

Weight Watchers Points (Per Chimichanga, Including Queso Blanco)

💙 Blue Plan: 5 points
💜 Purple Plan: 5 points
💚 Green Plan: 6 points

(For a lower-point option, reduce or omit queso blanco dip and use fat-free cheddar cheese.)

Nutritional Information (Per Chimichanga)

  • Calories: ~210
  • Carbs: 22g
  • Protein: 19g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Fiber: 10g

Tips & Variations

🌮 Make It Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or use a spicier salsa.
🧀 Cheesier Option: Swap queso blanco for reduced-fat Mexican blend cheese.
🥑 Avocado Topping: Add sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole.
🍗 Chicken Option: Swap beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for fewer points.
🍽️ Air Fryer Version: Spray with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Benefits of This Recipe

✅ Lower in Calories & Fat: Baked instead of deep-fried.
✅ High in Protein & Fiber: Keeps you full longer.
✅ Easy & Meal-Prep Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for quick meals.
✅ Customizable: Works with beef, chicken, or even vegetarian fillings.

Conclusion

These baked beef chimichangas are a perfect way to enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying meal while staying within Weight Watchers points. They’re easy to make, customizable, and taste just like restaurant-style chimichangas—but for fewer calories!