Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through the pantry, my gaze landed on a lonely package of corn tortillas, and a spark of inspiration ignited! That’s when I knew it was time to whip up some crispy Beef Taquitos that would put any frozen version to shame. These easy-to-make taquitos, with their customizable fillings, are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, making them the perfect go-to for weeknight dinners or friendly gatherings. So whether you prefer to bake them for a healthier touch or delight in the crunch of fried perfection, you’re in for a treat. Ready to elevate your snack game and impress your friends? Let’s dive into the delightful world of Beef Taquitos! Why Are Beef Taquitos a Must-Try? Crispy Exterior: The satisfying crunch of these taquitos will have you hooked from the first bite. Customizable Spice: Tailor the heat level to your liking with jalapeños or adjust the spices for a milder version. Quick Prep Time: Whip these up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights when tasty food is essential! Baking or Frying Options: Choose your preferred cooking method for a healthier baked version or the ultimate crispy fried indulgence. Family-Friendly Appeal: These taquitos are a hit with everyone, making them the perfect addition to any gathering. With options like Ground Beef Burrito for a fun twist, these Beef Taquitos are bound to impress! Beef Taquitos Ingredients For the Filling • Ground Beef – Main filling; use 90% lean for less grease. • Small Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and texture; shallots can be a substitute. • Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; garlic powder can work in a pinch. • Tomato Paste – Adds depth and umami; tomato sauce can be adjusted for use. • Taco Seasoning – Flavor base for the beef; consider homemade for freshness. • Pickled Jalapeños – Provide heat and acidity; fresh jalapeños are a milder alternative. • Kosher Salt – Essential seasoning for flavor enhancement. For the Cheesy Touch • Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds richness; Monterey Jack is a good alternative. • Pepper Jack Cheese – Adds a creamy, spicy kick; omit for milder flavor. For Preparing the Taquitos • Small Corn Tortillas – The base for the taquitos; should be pliable for rolling. • All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a glue for sealing the taquitos; cornstarch can be gluten-free. For Serving • Sour Cream – For dipping; creamy goodness that enhances the flavors. • Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens all flavors; lemon juice can be a substitute. • Fresh Cilantro – Adds freshness; parsley or green onions can work as replacements. • Guacamole/Pico de Gallo – For serving alongside your beef taquitos, a delicious pairing! With these Beef Taquitos ingredients, you’re set to create something utterly delicious that will transform your snack time into a flavorful fiesta! 🌮 Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Taquitos Step 1: Prepare Sofrito In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in a drizzle of neutral oil and add the diced onion and pickled jalapeños. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened. Stir in minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Mix in the tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize slightly for about 3 minutes, creating a rich base for your Beef Taquitos. Step 2: Cook Beef Add the ground beef and taco seasoning into the skillet, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked with no pink remaining. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release those tasty browned bits. Once done, transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly before proceeding to assemble the Beef Taquitos. Step 3: Assemble Taquitos In a mixing bowl, combine both cheeses. Take a small corn tortilla and spread a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center, topped with a sprinkle of cheese. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape, pressing to ensure it stays closed. Use a paste made of flour and water to seal the edges, laying them seam-side down on a plate while you repeat with the remaining tortillas. Step 4: Make Crema Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, then cover and place in the refrigerator to chill while you cook the taquitos. This creamy addition will enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy Beef Taquitos. Step 5: Cook Taquitos Now it’s time to cook your Beef Taquitos! If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the taquitos on a lined baking sheet, brushing the tops lightly with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy. For frying, heat oil in a deep pan to 375°F, then carefully add the taquitos, frying in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and enjoy immediately. How to Store and Freeze Beef Taquitos Fridge: Keep cooked Beef Taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for that fresh-crisp experience. Freezer: Uncooked, assembled taquitos can be frozen for up to 4 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheating: For previously cooked taquitos, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Wrap for Freshness: When storing, wrap taquitos individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper before placing them in a container to maintain texture. Expert Tips for Beef Taquitos Keep Tortillas Soft: Microwave the tortillas wrapped in a clean towel for about 30 seconds. This keeps them pliable and prevents tearing during rolling. Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your frying oil is at 375°F to achieve that perfect crispiness without making the Beef Taquitos greasy and heavy. Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the tortillas; a small amount of filling allows for easier rolling and better cooking results. Seal Tight: Make sure to seal the edges of the taquitos well with the flour paste to prevent fillings from leaking while they cook. Make Ahead: Assemble and freeze uncooked taquitos for up to 4 months. Just cook them directly from frozen when you’re ready for a delicious snack! With these expert tips, your Beef Taquitos are sure to impress your family and friends! Make Ahead Options These Beef Taquitos are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy home cooks! You can assemble the taquitos up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them, which allows you to enjoy them fresh without the last-minute rush. Simply prepare the filling and roll the taquitos as instructed, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. For optimal quality, make sure to keep them from touching each other, preventing sogginess. When you’re ready to cook, just bake or fry them directly from the fridge, and they’ll be just as delicious and crispy as if made on the same day! Beef Taquitos Variations & Substitutions Feel free to let your culinary imagination soar as you customize these mouthwatering Beef Taquitos to suit your preferences! Healthier Meat: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner filling without sacrificing flavor. It’s a fantastic alternative that pairs well with all the spices. Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option. This adds a wonderful earthy flavor and pairs beautifully with spices. Cheesy Fusion: Try using feta or goat cheese to add a tangy dimension to your filling. The creaminess blends beautifully with the savory ingredients. Spicy Kick: Add diced serrano peppers to the beef mixture for an extra layer of heat. It’s perfect for those who love a fiery punch! Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas and substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch to seal the taquitos, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish. Flavor Boost: Incorporate chipotle powder into your taco seasoning for a smoky depth that elevated your taquitos, reminiscent of your favorite Mexican street food. Savory Greens: Mix in some sautéed spinach or kale to add nutrients and a pop of color. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks to the beef filling for a fruity contrast that surprises the palate. Serve with a tangy salsa for the perfect pairing! No matter which variation you choose, these delightful adaptations will keep your Beef Taquitos exciting. If you’re craving more inspiration, check out recipes like Pot Beef Barley or consider a flavorful side of Crock Pot Vegetable Beef to complete your meal. Happy cooking! What to Serve with Beef Taquitos Elevate your taquito experience with delightful side dishes that complement their crispy, savory allure and tantalizing flavors. Fresh Guacamole: The creamy, buttery texture of avocado pairs beautifully with the crispy taquitos, creating an irresistible contrast. A sprinkle of lime juice adds bright acidity. Spicy Salsa: A vibrant, zesty salsa adds a burst of flavor, perfectly balancing the richness of the beef filling while enhancing the overall experience of each bite. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a comforting, savory element to your meal. They also offer a hearty counterpart, making your taquito plate more filling and satisfying. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fragrant rice with a hint of lime zest and fresh cilantro brings a refreshing touch to the table, complementing the flavors of the taquitos beautifully. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Charred corn slathered in creamy sauce and topped with cheese and chili powder creates a lively, flavorful side dish that pairs brilliantly with savory treats. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa delivers a delightful crunch and acidity that cut through the richness of the taquitos, invigorating your taste buds with each refreshing bite. Margaritas: For an irresistible drink pairing, consider a classic margarita. The tangy, citrusy flavors will elevate your taquito indulgence to a new level of enjoyment! Beef Taquitos Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best meat for Beef Taquitos? Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using ground beef that’s about 90% lean. This balance provides enough richness without being overly greasy. However, you can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option—just make sure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor profile. How long can I store leftover cooked Beef Taquitos? You can keep your cooked Beef Taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture. They’ll taste almost like fresh! What’s the best way to freeze uncooked Beef Taquitos? To freeze assembled, uncooked Beef Taquitos, lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, typically about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just cook them straight from frozen using your preferred method! How do I prevent my taquitos from being greasy? Great question! To achieve perfectly crispy yet not greasy Beef Taquitos, it’s crucial to make sure your oil is hot enough—aim for 375°F when frying. This helps seal the tortillas quickly, preventing excess oil from seeping in. Additionally, don’t overfill the tortillas; keeping the filling modest makes rolling easier and ensures even cooking. Can I make these Beef Taquitos vegetarian or cater to specific dietary needs? Very much so! To make them vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or finely chopped vegetables sautéed in your favorite spices. For gluten-free options, simply swap out regular tortillas for corn tortillas and use cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour for sealing. Always check ingredient labels for allergens—your taste flavor journey awaits without compromising dietary needs! Delicious Beef Taquitos That Will Change Your Snack Game These Beef Taquitos are a quick and customizable snack that brings a satisfying crunch and delicious flavor to any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 taquitosCourse: SnacksCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 lb. Ground Beef 90% lean for less grease1 small Yellow Onion Adds sweetness and texture2 cloves Garlic Minced2 tbsp Tomato Paste Can use tomato sauce1 tbsp Taco Seasoning Consider homemade for freshness1/4 cup Pickled Jalapeños Fresh jalapeños are a milder alternative1 tsp Kosher SaltFor the Cheesy Touch1 cup Cheddar Cheese Melts beautifully1/2 cup Pepper Jack Cheese Adds a creamy, spicy kickFor Preparing the Taquitos12 small Corn Tortillas Should be pliable for rolling1 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Acts as adhesive for sealingFor Serving1 cup Sour Cream For dipping2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice Or lemon juice as a substitute1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Or parsley/green onions as substitutes1 cup Guacamole/Pico de Gallo For serving Equipment large skilletMixing bowlbaking sheetdeep pan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef TaquitosIn a large skillet over medium heat, pour in a drizzle of neutral oil and add the diced onion and pickled jalapeños. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened. Stir in minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Mix in the tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize slightly for about 3 minutes.Add the ground beef and taco seasoning into the skillet, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, until the meat is fully cooked with no pink remaining. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly.In a mixing bowl, combine both cheeses. Take a small corn tortilla and spread a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center, topped with a sprinkle of cheese. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape, pressing to ensure it stays closed.Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and place in the refrigerator.If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the taquitos on a lined baking sheet, brushing the tops lightly with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy. For frying, heat oil in a deep pan to 375°F, then carefully add the taquitos, frying in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and enjoy immediately. Nutrition Serving: 2taquitosCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesKeep tortillas soft in the microwave, ensure frying oil is at the right temperature, avoid overfilling, seal edges tightly, and freeze uncooked taquitos for later cooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
