Crispy, golden, and absolutely irresistible, taquitos are a Mexican-inspired favorite that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. These rolled tortillas filled with flavorful ingredients are perfect for dipping, sharing, or savoring on their own. Let’s dive into how to make the best homemade taquitos!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Use your favorite fillings like shredded chicken, beef, cheese, or even vegetarian options.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, family dinners, or a casual movie night.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time to save even more time during cooking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Batch cook and freeze for a convenient snack or meal anytime.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Corn tortillas
- Shredded chicken, beef, or any protein of your choice
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- Salsa or green chili sauce
- Cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder
- Cooking oil for frying or baking
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and diced tomatoes
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (if baking) or heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat (if frying).
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave or skillet to make them pliable and prevent cracking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine your protein, shredded cheese, salsa, and spices until well blended.
- Place a small amount of the filling onto each tortilla, roll it tightly, and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- For baking: Arrange the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet and lightly brush with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
- For frying: Carefully place the taquitos in hot oil, seam-side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until crisp and golden.
- Remove the taquitos and drain excess oil on a paper towel.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces and toppings.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 12-15 taquitos, serving 4-6 people.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (baked) or 10 minutes (fried)
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian: Use beans, roasted vegetables, or plant-based proteins instead of meat.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
- Cheesy Delight: Use extra cheese for an ultra-gooey center.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your tortillas are certified gluten-free.
- Breakfast Taquitos: Use scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a morning twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Bake frozen taquitos at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through, or reheat in an air fryer for extra crispiness.
FAQs
How do I keep the tortillas from cracking?
Warm the tortillas before rolling to make them more pliable and less likely to break.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, but corn tortillas provide a more traditional flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to make taquitos crispy without frying?
Brush them lightly with oil and bake in a hot oven or use an air fryer for a crispy finish.
Can I make taquitos ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and roll the taquitos, then refrigerate or freeze them until ready to cook.
What sauces pair well with taquitos?
Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or queso are all excellent dipping options.
Can I make taquitos in an air fryer?
Yes, cook them at 375°F for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through for even crisping.
Are taquitos gluten-free?
If you use corn tortillas, they’re naturally gluten-free. Always check labels for any additional ingredients.
Can I use leftover meat for taquitos?
Definitely! Shredded rotisserie chicken, brisket, or pulled pork work wonderfully.
How do I reheat taquitos without making them soggy?
Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and satisfying. Whether you prefer them fried, baked, or air-fried, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time. Serve them with your favorite dips and toppings, and watch them disappear in minutes. Perfect for any occasion, taquitos are sure to become a family favorite!
Print
Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (baking) or 10 minutes (frying)
- Total Time: 35 minutes (baking) or 25 minutes (frying)
- Yield: 15–20 taquitos (depending on tortilla size) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking or Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Taquitos are crispy, rolled tortillas filled with a savory mixture, typically featuring meats like chicken, beef, or pork, combined with cheese and spices. They are either fried or baked until golden and crunchy. This recipe focuses on chicken taquitos, offering both baking and frying methods for preparation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup salsa (choose your preferred type)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 15–20 small corn or flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or oil (for baking or frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salsa, and sour cream until smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, chopped spinach (if using), cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- To prevent the tortillas from cracking during rolling, warm them slightly.
- For corn tortillas, heat a non-stick griddle over medium-high heat and cook each tortilla for about 15-30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
- Alternatively, wrap a stack of tortillas in damp paper towels and microwave for 15-30 seconds.
- Assemble the Taquitos:
- Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture along the center of each warmed tortilla.
- Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. To keep them secure, you can use a toothpick if needed.
- Cooking Methods:Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or a bit of oil to help them crisp up.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
Frying:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1½ inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place a few taquitos seam-side down into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for a few seconds on each side, rotating as needed, until they are golden and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the taquitos warm, accompanied by your favorite toppings and dips such as guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or pico de gallo.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: The chicken filling can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook the taquitos when ready to serve.
- Freezing Instructions: Assemble the taquitos and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. To cook, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes covered with foil, then uncover and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *