Taquitos are a mexican dish lots of people love for the crunch and how easy they are to fill with different stuff. Theyre made of rolled tortillas that get deep fried till there golden brown. You can munch em as a snack or eat em as a meal. You can use chicken, cheese or even veggies in them, but ground beef taquitos are something special. This filling is super rich and flavourful.
Ground beef taquitos are really popular, espeically in the United States. Youll see them on restaurant menus or made at home for family dinners. The seasoned beef inside goes perfect with the crispy tortilla and makes a bite thats hard to resist for kids or grown ups. You can make them hot and spicy or keep em mild, ground beef takes all kinds of spices. In this article we look at how to make these tasty treats, some variations and other tips.
What Are Taquitos?
Taquitos are little rolled up tortillas filled with meat, cheese or veggies. Theyre thought to have came from northern Mexico, where tortillas are a big part of the diet. The word “taquito” means “little taco” since theyre smaller than the tacos youre used to. People use corn or flour tortillas and then deep fry or bake them so they get super crunchy.
Long ago, indigenous people in Mesoamerica grew maize and made tortillas all the time. As recipes changed over hundreds of years, folks started adding all sorts of fillings and cooking them diffrently. Today taquitos are popular not just in Mexico but in the U.S. and other places too, and they make great snacks or apps.
Differences Between Taquitos and Other Similar Dishes
Taquitos are like flautas, burritos or enchiladas, but there are some big differences. Taquitos are small and usually use corn tortillas that are rolled tight. Flautas are the same idea but often with flour tortillas and theyre fried till extra crunchy. Burritos are much bigger and wrapped fully, with rice, beans and more inside. Enchiladas are corn tortillas dipped in sauce and baked, so theyre soft instead of crisp.
The type of tortilla really matters. Corn gives taquitos that authentic taste and texture. How you cook them – frying or baking – also changes the crunch level. That mix of simple ingredients and technique is what makes taquitos stand out in mexican food.
Benefits of Using Ground Beef in Taquitos
Ground beef is a top pick for taquitos for many reasons. Here are some of the biggest:
Nutritional Value of Ground Beef
Ground beef gives you a good dose of protein which helps muscles grow and fix themselves. It also has important minerals and vitamins like:
- Iron: helps carry oxygen in your blood
- Zinc: good for your immune system
- B Vitamins: gives you energy
Flavor and Texture
The taste of seasoned beef goes so well with a crisp tortilla. It adds a rich, savory bite and feels great in your mouth. Ground beef is easy to tweak too. Want spicy? Add chili powder. Like it mild? Skip the extra heat. You can mix up the spices and herbs to match any taste.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Taquitos
- Ground beef: the main filling
- Corn tortillas: for wrapping
- Onion: chopped, adds flavor
- Garlic: minced, gives aroma
- Cilantro: chopped, for freshness
- Spices: cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt and pepper
- Cheese: optional but yummy
- Oil: for frying or spray for baking
If you want a meatless version, try plant-based ground beef or use black beans or lentils instead. That way vegans and vegetarians can join the party too.
Detailed Recipe for Ground Beef Taquitos
Instructions for Preparation
1. Prepare the Filling
Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet on medium heat. Add the onion and cook till its soft. Then stir in the garlic and cook about a minute till its fragrant.
Next put in the ground beef and break it up with your spatula. Cook till its brown all over. Drain extra fat if theres lots, then return the pan to low heat.
Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Stir in cilantro and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
2. Assemble the Taquitos
Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave so they bend easy. Spoon some beef mix near one edge of each tortilla. Roll it up tight and tuck in the sides so it dont spill.
3. Cooking the Taquitos
For frying, heat oil to about 350°F (175°C). Place taquitos seam side down and fry till golden, turning so they crisp on all sides. For baking, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake on a sheet for 15–20 minutes. Or use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
4. Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with sour cream, guacamole and salsa. You can also top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce or jalapeño slices.
Tips for Perfect Taquitos
- Avoid overfilling: too much makes rolling hard and they might break
- Roll tightly: this keeps them from unravelling and gets them extra crispy
Popular Variations of Ground Beef Taquitos
Tex-Mex Twist
Add shredded cheese and a drizzle of spicy ranch dressing for a gooey, flavorful kick.
Vegetarian Options
Swap ground beef for plant-based meat, lentils or black beans. Season them same as beef for a tasty meatless version.
Flavor Infusions
Try chipotle powder or even Caribbean spices for a twist thatll surprise your taste buds.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Taquitos
Let leftovers cool, then put in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer keep, freeze them before cooking. Wrap each one and put in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Best Methods for Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes so they stay crispy. Avoid microwaves or theyll get soggy.
Pairing Options
Beverage Pairings
Try margaritas if you like alcohol, or agua fresca like hibiscus or watermelon for a soft drink.
Side Dishes
- Mexican rice: adds a flavorful base
- Refried beans: creamy and filling
- Guacamole: fresh and cool contrast
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Are Taquitos Made Of?
Usually corn tortillas filled with meat like seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic and spices. You can also add cheese or veggies.
Can I Use a Different Meat?
Yes, chicken, pork or turkey work great. Plant-based meats are good if you want vegetarian or vegan taquitos.
How Do I Keep Taquitos From Getting Soggy?
Dont overfill and roll them tight. Cook at a high temp to lock in crispiness. Store them right so moisture dont build up.
Are Taquitos Gluten-Free?
They can be if you use corn tortillas. Make sure any sauces or spices are gluten-free too, check labels for hidden gluten.
Conclusion
Ground beef taquitos are simple, versatile and always a hit. From the tasty filling to the crunchy shell, every bite’s a win. Give this recipe a try at home and dont be shy about adding your own twists. Let us know how yours turn out in the comments below!
ground beef taquitos
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 mixing spoon
- 1 tortilla press or rolling pin
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper (optional)
- 1 oven or frying pan
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- as needed for frying or brushing cooking oil
- optional salsa for serving
- optional sour cream for serving
- optional fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a mixing spoon to break the meat into small pieces.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the taquitos. If frying, heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Take a corn tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture and a tablespoon of cheese in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- If baking, place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray the taquitos with cooking oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
- If frying, carefully add the taquitos to the hot oil, seam-side down. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the taquitos hot, with salsa, sour cream, and fresh cilantro on the side for dipping and garnish.