Description
These Crispy Beef Taquitos with Cheesy Filling are a delicious Mexican appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Rolled in small tortillas and fried to golden perfection, they offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Perfect for parties or a tasty snack, they can also be baked for a healthier twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Taquitos
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1/2 inch in skillet)
Optional Toppings
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook the beef mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until the mixture is well combined and portions melt slightly.
- Prepare the tortillas: Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
- Assemble the taquitos: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese mixture along one edge of each tortilla, then roll tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed to hold the shape during frying.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high until shimmering and hot but not smoking.
- Fry the taquitos: Carefully place taquitos in the hot oil in batches, frying for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn gently to ensure even frying.
- Drain and serve: Remove taquitos from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Remove toothpicks before serving. Serve warm with optional toppings such as salsa, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and diced tomatoes.
Notes
- For a healthier version, bake the taquitos at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through until crispy.
- Use corn tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Ensure the filling is not too wet to prevent soggy taquitos.
- Be cautious when frying to maintain oil temperature for crispy results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
