Crispy and Easy Homemade Taquitos Recipe

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Taquitos are a classic Mexican dish that has become a beloved comfort food around the world. These crispy rolled tortillas are filled with savory, seasoned meat and gooey cheese, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, taquitos are both versatile and easy to make at home.

Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a family meal, or just looking for a satisfying treat, homemade taquitos are sure to impress. They’re simple enough for weeknight dinners and customizable to suit your preferences—use chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian filling.

Not only are they delicious, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces, from guacamole to salsa. With this easy recipe, you can recreate restaurant-quality taquitos in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe 

  • Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to make these taquitos.
  • Customizable: Swap the meat or cheese to cater to your personal preferences or dietary needs.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Taquitos are universally loved and perfect for gatherings, game nights, or family dinners.
  • Crispy Perfection: Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, these taquitos come out wonderfully crispy.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them ahead of time and freeze for quick and easy meals.

Homemade taquitos are a step above the store-bought variety. The freshly rolled tortillas crisp up beautifully, while the seasoned filling provides a burst of flavor. They’re perfect for any occasion and can be adapted for different diets. For example, you can use ground turkey for a lighter version or skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian option with beans and veggies.

Additionally, these taquitos are kid-friendly, making them a great addition to your family meal rotation. Pair them with a variety of toppings and dips to create a restaurant-style experience right at home.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • Oil for frying (or spray for baking)

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Equipment Used

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Skillet or air fryer
  • Baking sheet (if baking)
  • Tongs

Directions & Instructions 

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salsa, chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin. Mix until well combined.
  2. Warm the Tortillas:
    Heat the corn tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable and easier to roll.
  3. Assemble the Taquitos:
    Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling on one end of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with a toothpick, if needed.
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  4. Cook the Taquitos:
    • Frying: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
    • Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
    • Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the taquitos in a single layer and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
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  5. Serve:
    Remove toothpicks, if used, and serve the taquitos warm with your favorite dips.

Nutritional Information 

  • Calories: 150 per taquito (fried)
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg

Prep Time and Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian Taquitos: Replace the chicken with black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers.
  • Cheese-Lover’s Taquitos: Add Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for extra gooeyness.
  • Spicy Taquitos: Mix diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling.
  • Taco-Flavored: Use taco seasoning instead of chili powder and cumin.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the taquitos and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

2. Can I freeze taquitos?
Absolutely. Arrange the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and fry, bake, or air fry directly from frozen.

3. What dips pair well with taquitos?
Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or queso are all excellent choices.

4. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, but note that flour tortillas may not get as crispy as corn tortillas.

Pro Tips By Elisa

  • Always warm the tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking.
  • Don’t overfill the taquitos; too much filling may cause them to break.
  • Use toothpicks to secure the rolls while cooking.
  • If baking, lightly oil the taquitos to ensure crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these taquitos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Add a variety of dips like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream to create a platter perfect for sharing. Pair with a chilled margarita or limeade for a refreshing drink option!

Crispy and Easy Homemade Taquitos Recipe

Elisa
Make the best homemade taquitos! These crispy rolled tortillas are filled with seasoned meat and cheese, perfect for snacks or weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine Mexican
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet (if baking)
  • Large skillet (if frying)
  • Pastry brush (for sealing)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken or beef
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • Oil for frying or spray for baking

Instructions
 

Prepare the Filling:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salsa, chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin. Mix until well combined.

Warm the Tortillas:

  • Heat the corn tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable and easier to roll.

Assemble the Taquitos:

  • Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling on one end of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with a toothpick, if needed.

Cook the Taquitos:

  • Frying: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the taquitos in a single layer and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serve:

  • Remove toothpicks, if used, and serve the taquitos warm with your favorite dips.

Notes

Always warm the tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking.
Don’t overfill the taquitos; too much filling may cause them to break.
Keyword Recipe Idea Easy