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Beef Taquitos

Crispy rolled tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef and cheese, perfect for a flavorful appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • ½ cup (75 g) yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups / 480 ml)
  • Optional garnishes: salsa, sour cream, chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef; sauté another 2–3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  4. Warm the tortillas briefly in the microwave (about 15 seconds) or in a hot, dry skillet so they’re pliable and won’t crack when rolling.
  5. Place about 2 Tbsp of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese at one end of each tortilla. Tuck in the sides and roll tightly to enclose the filling.
  6. In a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350 °F (175 °C). Carefully add taquitos in batches, seam-side down, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
  7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with remaining taquitos.
  8. Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, and cilantro for dipping or garnish.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, brush taquitos with oil and bake at 425 °F (220 °C) for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway.
  • You can assemble ahead and freeze on a baking sheet; transfer to a bag once firm and fry or bake straight from frozen.
  • Add finely chopped jalapeño to the beef mixture for extra heat.
  • Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef taquitos, crispy taquitos, Mexican appetizer, rolled tacos, snack