Welcome to your next favorite Mexican feast – Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos! This recipe brings you a delightful mix of crunchy corn tortillas enveloping a warm, cheesy beef filling. Perfect for family dinners or a weekend indulgence, these taquitos are sure to satisfy your cravings and get your taste buds dancing. Whether you dip them in salsa or enjoy them straight from the oven, every bite is a rich tapestry of flavors waiting to be unveiled.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup salsa, for dipping
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipments
- Frying pan
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Paper towels
How to Make Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating your frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned on all sides, ensuring to break it apart using a spatula. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add chopped onions and taco seasoning, stirring well. Allow the flavors to meld together, cooking for another 3 minutes. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it’s melted and thoroughly combined with the beef.
Step 2: Soften the Tortillas
In preparation for rolling, it’s important to soften your corn tortillas to prevent cracking. Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 10 seconds on each side. This step is crucial for easy rolling without any breaks or tears.
Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the edge of the tortilla. Roll it up tightly and secure it with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat the process until all tortillas are prepared.
Step 4: Fry the Taquitos
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, taking about 2-3 minutes per batch. Transfer cooked taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Once drained of excess oil, it’s time to serve your crispy delights. Arrange them on a platter, and don’t forget to provide salsa or guacamole for a perfect dipping experience. Enjoy while hot for the ultimate crunch!
How to Serve Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos
These taquitos are best served immediately while still hot and crispy. Pair them with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Consider serving with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For best results, ensure your beef is well drained to avoid soggy taquitos. If you prefer extra spice, consider adding jalapeños or chipotle peppers to your beef mixture. Use freshly grated cheese as it melts more smoothly compared to pre-packaged options.
A High-Protein Twist: Beef Up Your Taquitos!
If you’re looking to boost the protein content of your taquitos, consider using a higher proportion of lean ground beef or incorporating black beans into the filling. Another great option is to add finely chopped grilled chicken or turkey to the mix. This not only introduces additional protein but also adds a different layer of flavor, making your taquitos even more hearty and satisfying. Pair them with a rich, protein-packed dipping sauce like Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice and chipotle for a fulfilling meal.
Low Carb Crunch: Keep it Light and Delicious!
If you’re keeping an eye on carbs, you can easily transform these taquitos into a low-carb delicacy by opting for low-carb or keto-friendly tortillas. Alternatively, try using lettuce wraps or thin slices of jicama as a crisp and refreshing shell. These variations hold the filling nicely without sacrificing that satisfying crunch. Pair your low-carb taquitos with a tangy slaw made from cabbage, lime, and a hint of chili for a fresh, zesty complement.
Storage Instructions
Taquitos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. For longer storage, freeze the taquitos before frying them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be fried straight from the freezer, just add an additional 1-2 minutes of cooking time.
FAQs
- Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying? Yes, to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F, place rolled taquitos on a baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20 minutes or until crispy.
- What other cheeses work well in this recipe? Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend can be great options to use.
- Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe? Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or lentils.
- Can I use flour tortillas instead? Yes, flour tortillas can be used and may yield a slightly different texture but equally delicious taquitos.
- What’s the best way to ensure extra crispy taquitos? Ensure the oil is hot enough and that you don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain the oil’s temperature.
Savor the Crunch! Share Your Creation
We hope you fall in love with these Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos as much as we have! They are a perfect addition to any menu and can even be made ahead for busy weeknights. Don’t forget to share your experience and a photo of your creation, and let us know what you thought in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- shredded cheddar cheese
- taco seasoning
- corn tortillas
- chopped onions
- salsa
- vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper