Crispy Beef Taquitos with Melted Cheese
These crispy beef taquitos, filled with melty cheese, are a quick and delicious Mexican treat perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Taquitos
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is a classic)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 small corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying Use enough to cover the bottom of the frying pan.
For Serving
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Once the beef is ready, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable to prevent cracking.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese mixture into each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Heat about an inch of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Place the fried taquitos on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
Notes
These taquitos can be made ahead and frozen. Reheat in the oven when needed. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.