Spicy Beef Taquitos

Craving a crunchy, flavorful bite that’s packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of heat? Spicy Beef Taquitos are exactly what you need! These crispy little rolls are filled with seasoned beef that’s been simmered to perfection, making each bite absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them for a quick dinner, a game-day snack, or as a party appetizer, these taquitos will be the star of the show. Paired with a cool dipping sauce or some tangy salsa, trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Let’s dive in and get these spicy little rolls into your life!

Why You’ll Love Spicy Beef Taquitos

There’s a lot to love about these taquitos, but here’s why they’re going to become your go-to snack or meal:

Perfectly Crispy

The golden, crispy exterior of these taquitos is just the beginning. Once you take a bite, you’ll be met with a savory, spicy beef filling that balances perfectly with the crunchy shell. It’s the ideal combination of texture and flavor.

Flavor-Packed Beef Filling

The seasoned beef is cooked with spices, onions, and garlic, making it incredibly flavorful. A touch of heat from chili powder and cumin adds depth and warmth without overpowering the dish.

Quick and Easy

This recipe is so simple to make! With a few basic ingredients and just a little bit of time, you’ll have delicious taquitos on the table. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Spicy Beef Taquitos are perfect for just about any occasion. They’re great for a casual dinner, a fun snack, or even a party appetizer. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings, sauces, or dips!

Ingredients

Let’s talk about what you’ll need for these flavorful Spicy Beef Taquitos:

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (for a bit of sweetness and flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (for a warm, smoky heat)
• 1 teaspoon cumin (adds depth and earthiness)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup salsa (for moisture and a burst of flavor)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (adds richness and creaminess to the filling)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef)

For the Taquitos:

• 10-12 small flour tortillas (you can also use corn tortillas if you prefer)
• Vegetable oil, for frying (or use cooking spray if you prefer baking)

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s dive into making these crispy, flavorful taquitos:

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Once the beef is cooked, add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let the spices cook for a minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. Then, add the salsa and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Roll the Taquitos

To assemble, heat the tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them more pliable. This will help them roll up easily without cracking. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla, then roll it tightly to form a taquito. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and beef filling.

Step 4: Fry the Taquitos

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully place the taquitos seam-side down in the oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the taquitos for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the taquitos hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or salsa on the side. You can garnish with a little sour cream, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of freshness.

(Note: The full instructions, including specific times, are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 750mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 16g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Spicy Beef Taquitos

These taquitos are best enjoyed hot and crispy! Here are a few ideas to make them even more delicious:

With Guacamole

A creamy, cool guacamole is the perfect contrast to the spiced-up beef. Add a little lime juice, cilantro, and diced tomatoes for a fresh, zesty dip.

With Salsa or Pico de Gallo

For a fresh, tangy kick, serve these taquitos with your favorite salsa or pico de gallo. The chunky texture and bright flavors complement the beef filling wonderfully.

With Sour Cream or Mexican Crema

A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema can help balance the heat and add a touch of creaminess to each bite.

With a Side of Rice

If you want to make this a more complete meal, pair your taquitos with some fluffy Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice. They’re perfect for soaking up any extra salsa or cheese.

Additional Tips

• Bake Instead of Frying: If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the taquitos instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the beef filling and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before making the taquitos. Just reheat it before assembling.
• Use Corn Tortillas: For a more authentic taste, swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas. Just be sure to heat them before rolling so they don’t crack.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Yes! Ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning slightly to enhance the flavor of the leaner meat.

Q2: Can I make the taquitos ahead of time?
A2: You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time, but I recommend frying them fresh for the best crispy texture. If you need to prep ahead, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.

Q3: Can I freeze the taquitos?
A3: Yes, these taquitos freeze really well! After rolling them, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Fry them from frozen for an extra crispy result.

Q4: Can I bake the taquitos instead of frying them?
A4: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F, brush the taquitos with a little olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Q5: How can I make these taquitos spicier?
A5: Add extra cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef filling for an extra spicy kick.

Q6: Can I use different cheese for the filling?
A6: Yes! Feel free to use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the taquitos.

Q7: What kind of oil is best for frying taquitos?
A7: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great options for frying taquitos, as they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

Q8: How do I store leftover taquitos?
A8: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Q9: Can I make these taquitos gluten-free?
A9: Yes! Use gluten-free corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make this dish gluten-free.

Q10: What’s a good dipping sauce for these taquitos?
A10: You can dip these taquitos in sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or even a creamy chipotle ranch dressing for a little extra flavor.

Enjoy these Spicy Beef Taquitos—they’re the perfect balance of crunchy, spicy, and cheesy, making them a hit for any occasion!

Print