These Ground Beef Taquitos are the ultimate crispy, cheesy, and savory delight! With a well-seasoned beef filling wrapped inside a crunchy golden tortilla, they are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a full meal. Served alongside fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, they bring a delicious balance of flavor and texture to your table. Whether fried to golden perfection or cooked in an air fryer for a lighter alternative, these taquitos are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Pair them with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal, or serve them as a party appetizer that will disappear in seconds. One bite, and you’ll see why these homemade taquitos are a game-changer!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ pound ground beef (500 g)
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 tablespoons salsa
- ½ cup water (118 ml)
- 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (113 g)
- 5 corn tortillas
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef for 5 to 6 minutes until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, followed by the salsa and water. Continue cooking until the mixture is well combined and the liquid has mostly evaporated.
- Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheese in the center.
- Spoon some of the seasoned ground beef onto the cheese and roll the tortilla tightly into a taquito. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Heat oil in a clean skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the taquitos seam-side down into the oil.
- Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, rotating until all sides are crispy and golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 305 kcal | Servings: 5
The Origin of Taquitos
Taquitos, sometimes called flautas, originated in Mexico and have become a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine. The word “taquito” means “small taco” in Spanish, and these rolled tacos are believed to have been first made in Mexican street markets, where vendors would serve them hot and crispy with a variety of salsas and toppings.
Over time, taquitos gained popularity in the United States, particularly in the Southwest, where they became a common dish in Mexican-American households and restaurants. Today, you can find taquitos in fast-food chains, frozen food aisles, and upscale restaurants, each with their own take on this crunchy, flavorful dish.
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Taquitos
There are several reasons why taquitos have become a beloved dish across the world:
1. Crunchy and Flavorful
The combination of crispy tortillas and well-seasoned beef makes every bite of a taquito irresistibly delicious. Frying or air-frying them ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
With just a few ingredients, taquitos can be prepared in under 30 minutes. They’re a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
3. Versatile and Customizable
While this recipe features ground beef, you can easily swap in other proteins like shredded chicken, pork, or even vegetarian fillings like black beans or mushrooms. The seasoning can be adjusted to match your spice preference.
4. Perfect for Dipping
One of the best things about taquitos is the variety of dipping options. Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and queso all pair perfectly with these crunchy delights, enhancing their flavor and texture.
5. Great for Meal Prep and Freezing
Taquitos can be made in large batches and frozen for later use. Simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a quick and delicious snack anytime.
Cooking Methods for Taquitos
1. Traditional Frying
The most authentic way to cook taquitos is by deep-frying them. This method gives the best crunch and golden-brown texture. However, it requires more oil and can be messier than other methods.
2. Air Fryer Taquitos
For a healthier alternative, air frying is a fantastic option. It requires minimal oil but still delivers a crispy, crunchy exterior. The air fryer method also makes clean-up easier.
3. Baking for a Healthier Twist
If you prefer to avoid frying altogether, baking taquitos in the oven is another great choice. Lightly brushing them with oil before baking helps achieve a crispier texture.
Best Sides and Dipping Sauces for Taquitos
Taquitos are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some of the best pairings:
Dipping Sauces:
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado pairs beautifully with crispy taquitos.
- Sour Cream – A classic dip that balances the spices.
- Salsa Roja or Salsa Verde – Adds a fresh, tangy kick.
- Queso Dip – Melty cheese sauce makes everything better.
Side Dishes:
- Mexican Rice – A flavorful side that makes taquitos a complete meal.
- Refried Beans – A creamy and savory companion.
- Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad) – A tangy, cheesy corn dish that complements the crispy texture of taquitos.
- Fresh Salad – A simple lettuce, tomato, and avocado salad adds freshness to the meal.
Variations and Customizations
Taquitos are highly customizable, allowing you to create different flavors based on your preferences:
1. Protein Substitutes
- Chicken Taquitos – Shredded rotisserie chicken with spices makes a delicious alternative.
- Pork Taquitos – Slow-cooked carnitas or shredded pork add rich flavor.
- Vegetarian Taquitos – Fill them with black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or mashed sweet potatoes for a meatless version.
2. Cheese Options
- Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
- Cotija cheese provides a salty, crumbly contrast.
3. Extra Fillings
- Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mix in sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra texture.
- Use refried beans for a richer, heartier filling.
How to Store and Reheat Taquitos
One of the best things about taquitos is their ability to be stored and reheated while still maintaining their crunch:
1. Storing Leftovers
Place leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing for Later
To freeze, arrange the cooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating Options
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: While not as crispy, microwaving for 1-2 minutes is the quickest option.
Conclusion:
Ground Beef Taquitos are a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful Mexican food. Their combination of crunchy tortillas, seasoned beef, and melted cheese makes them a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions.
Whether you choose to fry, air-fry, or bake them, taquitos are incredibly easy to make and pair well with a variety of dips and sides. Their versatility allows for endless customization, ensuring that there’s a version of taquitos for everyone.
