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Crispy cheesy beef taquitos served with salsa and avocado on a plate

Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos

These delicious taquitos are filled with savory beef and melty cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a game day snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 taquitos
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20) Drain if needed
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Melts nicely
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Mild smoky heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin Warm, earthy note
  • Salt and pepper Taste as you go
  • 8-10 small corn tortillas Should be soft, then crisp up
  • Oil for frying Neutral oil with high smoke point
  • Sour cream for dipping Cool contrast
  • Salsa for dipping Bright acidity

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking; otherwise, heat oil in a pan over medium heat for frying.
  2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; break the meat into small pieces.
  3. Drain excess fat, return the skillet to heat, and stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave wrapped in a damp towel or on a skillet until pliable.
Assembly
  1. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese onto each tortilla, then roll tightly and tuck the seam underneath.
Cooking
  1. For baking: Place rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 15–20 minutes until edges are golden and crispy.
  2. For frying: Carefully fry rolled taquitos in hot oil until golden brown on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  3. Serve hot with sour cream and salsa.

Notes

For a smokier kick, add a pinch more chili powder. Store cooled taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.