The sweet aroma of crispy, fried corn and savory beef filling wafts through the kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. Crispy cheesy beef taquitos are more than just a snack; they’re a true comfort food that takes me back to my childhood, where every family gathering featured a platter overflowing with these delights. Whether it’s a quiet weeknight dinner or a lively game day gathering, taquitos are the kind of dish that brings joy and satisfaction to any occasion.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe shines for so many reasons. First off, it promises a quick cooking time — we’re talking under 30 minutes for golden, crispy perfection. When the day has been long and a bit tiring, this dish is here to save the day without putting a dent in your wallet. The simple ingredients come together in a symphony of flavors that’s bound to please even the pickiest eaters. Kids especially love these crunchy bites, as they can be eaten with their hands and dipped in creamy sour cream or zesty salsa.
"We made these for game night, and they disappeared in minutes! The kids couldn’t get enough, and I loved how easy they were to make."
Preparing Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos
Charming and simple to whip up, these taquitos leave room for creativity. To kick off your culinary adventure, grab your skillet and get cooking! The sequence is straightforward: you’ll brown the beef, blend in aromatic garlic and spices, and load up those tortillas with delicious filling.
Gather the following ingredients:
What you’ll need
- 10 small corn tortillas
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- Sour cream and salsa for serving
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even consider using shredded chicken or black beans as an alternative to ground beef. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor the taquitos to your taste or dietary needs.
Directions to follow
- Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned. Afterward, drain any excess fat.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cumin, seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it sauté for another couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Warm the corn tortillas slightly in a separate pan or the microwave so they become pliable—this will make rolling them much easier.
- Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture and a bit of cheese onto each tortilla. Carefully roll them up tightly so they don’t burst during frying.
- In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When it’s hot enough (but not smoking!), add the taquitos in batches.
- Fry each side until they turn a lovely golden brown and crispy, roughly 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain off excess grease.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once your taquitos are perfectly golden and crispy, it’s time to serve them up! I love to arrange them on a big platter, with vibrant bowls of salsa and sour cream on the side for dipping. If you want to add a twist, consider serving them alongside some guacamole or a refreshing slaw. They make a fantastic appetizer but can also stand proudly as a main dish paired with a light salad.
How to store & freeze
Leftovers can be tricky but, rest assured, I have you covered. If you have any taquitos hanging around after dinner, make sure to let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them; stack them with parchment paper in between and pop them in a freezer bag. They hold up well for about 2-3 months. Always reheat in an oven or air fryer for a crisp finish.
Extra advice
Cooking can come with its challenges, especially when it’s about achieving the ultimate crispiness. It’s important to ensure your oil is hot enough before frying—cold oil will result in soggy taquitos. Another tip? Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different cheese blends for a flavor twist; a smoky pepper jack brings a delightful kick!
Creative twists
While the classic beef and cheese combo is hard to beat, don’t hesitate to explore! Consider adding some sautéed onions or roasted peppers to the filling. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the dish beautifully, too. For those who enjoy a spicy bite, adding jalapeños or using a spicier cheese will invigorate your taste buds.
Common questions
How long does it take to make taquitos?
You can whip up these delicious taquitos in less than 30 minutes, perfect for a quick meal.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken or turkey also works wonderfully. Even plant-based proteins like beans can make a tasty filling.
How do I reheat leftover taquitos?
For the best texture, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer until crispy again, instead of using a microwave, which might leave them soggy.
Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, draining any excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and cumin to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for another couple of minutes.
- Warm the corn tortillas slightly in a separate pan or microwave to make them pliable.
- Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture and a bit of cheese onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.