Oven Baked Beef Taquitos

Oven Baked Beef Taquitos are a crispy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos. Filled with seasoned beef, cheese, and spices, these taquitos are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Serve them with your favorite dips for a crowd-pleasing meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and golden without the need for deep frying.
• Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
• Packed with flavorful, seasoned beef and gooey cheese.
• Customizable with your favorite fillings and toppings.
• Kid-friendly and great for parties, snacks, or lunchboxes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Salsa or diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Small corn or flour tortillas
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Toppings and dips: guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or queso

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Cook the beef filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
3. Season the filling: Mix in the taco seasoning and salsa. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Assemble the taquitos: Warm the tortillas to make them pliable. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and roll tightly. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake until crispy: Lightly brush the taquitos with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
6. Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dips and toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 (12-15 taquitos)
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Chicken taquitos: Substitute cooked, shredded chicken for the ground beef.
• Vegetarian taquitos: Use black beans, refried beans, or a plant-based meat substitute instead of beef.
• Cheesy twist: Add cream cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
• Spicy taquitos: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Tortilla options: Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas to suit dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy. For frozen taquitos, bake directly from frozen for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a leaner option.

2. How do I keep the taquitos from unrolling during baking?

Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down and secure with a toothpick if necessary.

3. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Are corn or flour tortillas better for taquitos?

Corn tortillas are traditional and crisp up nicely, but flour tortillas work well too and are easier to roll.

5. Can I fry these taquitos instead of baking?

Yes, fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.

6. How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?

Warm the tortillas before rolling to make them pliable. Cover them with a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.

7. Can I use pre-cooked beef, like leftover taco meat?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked beef works great and saves time.

8. What dips pair well with taquitos?

Guacamole, sour cream, salsa, queso, or pico de gallo are excellent options.

9. Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

10. How can I make them extra crispy?

Brush them with oil and bake on a wire rack to allow air circulation for even crispiness.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Beef Taquitos are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy shells and savory beef filling, these taquitos are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Serve them with your favorite dips, and enjoy a healthier take on a classic favorite!

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