Beef Taquitos

Those cozy evenings spent in the kitchen, preparing delicious food for friends and family, often bring up the best memories. I vividly remember the first time I made Beef Taquitos. It was a last-minute decision one Friday night, and the smell of sizzling beef combined with spices filled the air. Everyone gathered around the kitchen, eagerly awaiting the crispy treats.

Beef taquitos quickly became a go-to in my household. They’re quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether hosting a game night or simply enjoying a casual dinner, these taquitos hit the spot every time. The delightful crunch paired with savory filling makes each bite unforgettable.

In this recipe, we’ll dive deep into making Beef Taquitos that burst with flavors and textures. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create something delicious.

---

Part 1 — Beef Taquitos Essentials

Fundamentals

Beef taquitos are simple but satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like it took hours to prepare. The foundation starts with the beef, which serves as the primary protein source, providing a hearty filling. You can choose between ground beef or shredded cooked beef, depending on your preference.

Flavors really come into play with spices like chili powder and cumin. These ingredients will elevate your taquitos from ordinary to extraordinary. Fresh garlic and onion add depth, making the filling aromatic and delicious.

Preparation/Setup

Before diving into the cooking, gather your ingredients. Setting up your workspace makes the process much smoother. Chop the onions and mince the garlic so everything is ready to go when you start cooking. This organization cuts down on time and stress while preparing dinner.

Warming the tortillas is another crucial step. Whether you pan-fry them slightly or microwave them briefly, this will ensure they are pliable enough to roll without cracking.

Ingredients

For these flavorful Beef Taquitos, you will need:

• 1 pound ground beef or shredded cooked beef (e.g., brisket or roast)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or salsa
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• 12 small corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
• Toothpicks (optional, for holding taquitos together during cooking)
• Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes for garnish

Directions

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of vegetable oil and let it warm. Once hot, toss in the diced onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until softened, becoming translucent.

Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. This short period allows the garlic to release its fragrant aroma.

Next, stir in your choice of ground beef or warm the shredded cooked beef in the skillet. Break it up with a spoon if using ground beef, and cook until browned and no longer pink.

Mix in the spices: chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.

Add the tomato sauce or salsa, and stir well. Let this cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and well combined. Allow the filling to cool slightly.

Warm the tortillas to make them pliable. You can do this by heating them in the skillet for 10-15 seconds per side or by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.

Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling along the bottom third of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with a toothpick if desired.

For frying, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan until it reaches 350°F. Fry the taquitos in batches, seam-side down first, for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

If baking, preheat your oven to 425°F. Arrange the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or brush them with oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through until they’re crispy and golden.

For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the taquitos in a single layer, seam-side down, and spray lightly with oil. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

After cooking, arrange the taquitos on a platter and garnish with fresh toppings like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, or diced tomatoes. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added freshness.

---

Part 2 — Mastering Beef Taquitos

Technique

Perfecting your Beef Taquitos involves mastering the rolling and cooking methods. The key is to ensure your tortillas are warm and flexible, which will prevent them from cracking during the rolling process.

When rolling, apply a firm yet gentle touch, ensuring the filling stays securely inside while you roll. If you choose to use toothpicks, insert them through the seam to hold each taquito closed during cooking.

Consider the cooking method based on your preferences. Frying gives a uniquely crispy texture, while baking can provide a lighter option without compromising too much on crunch.

Tips/Tricks

• If frying, ensure the oil is hot enough. A test is to drop a small piece of tortilla in; it should sizzle immediately.
• Adjust spices based on your heat preference. Adding more chili powder or including diced jalapeños can elevate the flavor profile for those who enjoy a kick.
• Make a double batch and freeze the extras. They freeze well, allowing you to enjoy them on a busy night with minimal prep time.
• Experiment with different fillings! Try adding black beans, corn, or even a blend of different cheeses for a creative twist on the traditional Beef Taquito.

---

Part 3 — Perfecting Your Beef Taquitos

Perfecting Results

Ensuring your Beef Taquitos come out perfectly crispy or baked requires attention to detail. If frying, do not overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy taquitos.

When baking, preheat the oven thoroughly for even cooking. Spraying oil on the taquitos helps achieve a beautiful golden brown color.

Watch the cooking time closely. It might require slight adjustments based on your specific oven or air fryer.

Troubleshooting/Variations

Sometimes, taquitos can turn out differently than expected. If they seem too dry, consider adding more tomato sauce or cheese to the filling.

For a heartier meal, serve the taquitos with sides like rice, beans, or a simple salad.

Additionally, feel free to mix it up with different spices or herbs. Smoked paprika, for instance, adds a delightful smoky flavor that complements the beef perfectly.

---

Part 4 — Serving and Storage of Beef Taquitos

Serving/Presentation

Presentation can make a simple dish feel elegant. Arrange the Beef Taquitos on a large platter, garnished with vibrant toppings. Offering a variety of dips, such as guacamole and salsa, creates an inviting spread.

Consider adding shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes on the side for a fresh crunch. The bright colors enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

Pairings/Storage

Pair these Beef Taquitos with refreshing beverages like iced tea or soft drinks for a casual meal. For something lighter, a simple side salad can complement the dish beautifully. Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for that freshly cooked feel.

Freezing taquitos is also an option. Before cooking, place the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This makes for easy reheating on busy evenings.

---

Superb Beef Taquitos can bring back those delightful kitchen moments and provide a savory dish everyone will enjoy. Follow these steps to create your flavorful treat. These tasty rolls allow warm memories to flourish around the table.

Print