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+ servings
recipe image of ground beef shredded cheese corn tortillas onions garlic chili powder cumin paprika salt pepper arranged on white marble counter with clear glass bowls and rustic wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
katya bou

Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos

These crispy cheesy beef taquitos are a crunchy, flavorful comfort food made with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and golden corn tortillas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef lean
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning or 1 packet
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Mexican blend or cheddar
  • 1/4 cup refried beans optional, for binding
For Assembly
  • 12-16 corn tortillas small size
  • cooking spray or oil for brushing

Equipment

  • Large skillet,
  • Microwave
  • Air Fryer (or oven, as alternative)
  • tongs
  • paper towels.

Method
 

Prepare the Filling
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
  3. Stir in taco seasoning and beef broth. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until liquid absorbs. Remove from heat.
  4. Stir in shredded cheese (and refried beans if using) until melted. Let cool slightly.
  5. Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds until pliable.
  6. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling slightly off-center on each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
  7. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray taquitos with cooking spray. Cook in batches for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, bake in oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or fry in oil at 350°F for 2-3 minutes per side.
  8. Remove toothpicks and serve hot with dips like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 22gFat: 18g

Notes

For extra crispiness, ensure tortillas are warm before rolling. Taquitos can be assembled ahead and frozen unbaked for up to 3 months. Reheat leftovers in air fryer for best results to maintain crunch.
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