If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that combines bold flavors with irresistible crunch, this Spicy Beef Taquitos Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and just the right amount of heat from jalapeños and spices, these golden, crispy taquitos deliver a fiesta of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a gathering or just craving something comforting and flavorful, these taquitos will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Spicy Beef Taquitos Recipe keeps it straightforward with simple ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the savory beef filling to the crispy corn tortillas, every component plays a key role in crafting that perfect balance of texture and taste.
- Ground beef: The hearty base packed with rich flavor and protein.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth after being softened.
- Garlic: A hint of pungency that lifts the overall flavor profile.
- Jalapeño: Gives just the right kick without overpowering heat.
- Ground cumin: Earthy warmth that ties the spices together.
- Chili powder: Adds a smoky, spicy dimension to the beef.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness enhancing the filling.
- Black pepper and salt: Essential seasoning to bring out all other flavors.
- Tomato sauce: Creates a moist, flavorful binding for the filling.
- Beef broth (or water): Helps the mixture simmer and thicken beautifully.
- Shredded cheese: Melted goodness that adds creaminess and a savory finish.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): A fresh pop of herbal brightness.
- Small corn tortillas: The crunchy, slightly sweet wrapping that crisps up perfectly when fried.
- Vegetable oil: For frying the taquitos to golden perfection.
- Dipping sauces (optional): Sour cream, salsa, or guacamole to elevate every bite.
How to Make Spicy Beef Taquitos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Brown it thoroughly, breaking it up as it cooks until no pink remains. If there’s excess fat, drain it off now to keep things from getting greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño (seeds removed if you want milder heat). Cook this mix for about 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and their sweetness becomes fragrant, perfectly complementing the beef.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together and let the spices toast for about a minute to release their bold flavors, ensuring your filling is packed with depth.
Step 4: Simmer
Now pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef, creating a luscious, flavorful base for your taquitos.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Cilantro
Once off the heat, fold in the shredded cheese and fresh cilantro if you’re using it. The cheese melts into the warm meat mixture, adding creamy richness while the cilantro gives a fresh finish that brightens the dish.
Step 6: Warm the Tortillas
Making your corn tortillas flexible is key to rolling taquitos without cracking. Heat them on a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp towel for 20-30 seconds until they’re soft and easy to roll.
Step 7: Fill and Roll the Taquitos
Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the beef filling onto the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly, folding in the sides if needed to seal the filling snugly inside.
Step 8: Fry Until Crispy
Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the taquitos seam-side down to keep them closed. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Work in batches so the oil stays hot and they fry evenly.
Step 9: Drain the Oil
Once perfectly crisp, transfer the taquitos to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil, ensuring every bite stays crunchy but not greasy.
Step 10: Serve Hot
Serve your spicy beef taquitos fresh out of the skillet with some of your favorite dips like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for that extra layer of flavor magic.
How to Serve Spicy Beef Taquitos Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime on your taquitos for a zesty, fresh contrast to the rich filling. A drizzle of creamy avocado crema or a dollop of cool sour cream balances the spiciness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Complement your crispy taquitos with a simple Mexican street corn salad, refried beans, or a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides add freshness and variety, transforming your meal into a festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking taquitos in a festive platter surrounded by colorful bowls of different salsas and dips. Or serve them on a bed of shredded lettuce with diced tomatoes and avocado for a vibrant taco-inspired twist. For parties, offer toothpicks for fuss-free finger foods everyone can enjoy while mingling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool leftover taquitos completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, and you’ll have a fantastic ready-to-eat snack that reheats beautifully without losing its crunch.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange unfried rolled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and are perfect for last-minute cravings.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen taquitos in a hot oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures they stay wonderfully crunchy without becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Using small corn tortillas as in this Spicy Beef Taquitos Recipe keeps it naturally gluten-free, just double-check your spices and broth to ensure they don’t contain gluten-containing additives.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mexican cheese blends or sharp cheddar work wonderfully. They melt nicely and add a lovely savory richness that pairs perfectly with the spicy beef.
Can I bake instead of fry the taquitos?
Yes, for a lighter version, bake the rolled taquitos on a greased baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, until they’re crisp and golden.
How spicy are the taquitos?
The heat level is moderate, thanks to the jalapeño with seeds removed, and the chili powder. You can adjust the spice level by using less jalapeño or opting for a milder pepper.
Can I prepare the beef filling in advance?
Definitely! Making the filling ahead of time saves prep during serving; just store it refrigerated and assemble the taquitos when ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Beef Taquitos Recipe is a total keeper for anyone who loves bold flavors paired with crispy, cheesy goodness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a fun party snack, or a game day treat, these taquitos will never disappoint. So grab your skillet and dive into making these delicious bites that everyone will be asking for again and again!
Print
Spicy Beef Taquitos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Spicy Beef Taquitos are crispy, golden rolled tortillas stuffed with a flavorful, seasoned ground beef filling mixed with melted cheese and fresh cilantro. Perfect as a delicious appetizer or party snack, these taquitos combine a spicy kick with a satisfying crunch from frying in hot oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dips like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for a crowd-pleasing Mexican-inspired treat.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For Assembly and Frying:
- 10–12 small corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Guacamole
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed to keep the filling less greasy.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture is fragrant.
- Season the Beef: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional minute to allow the spices to toast and release their flavors.
- Simmer: Add the tomato sauce and beef broth (or water) to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef evenly. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
- Add Cheese and Cilantro: Stir the shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using) into the warm beef mixture until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. Set aside.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas on a dry skillet or microwave them for 20-30 seconds to make them more pliable and easier to roll without cracking. Wrapping tortillas in a damp towel before microwaving helps keep them soft.
- Fill the Tortillas: Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly to encase the filling securely.
- Fry the Taquitos: Pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 inch in a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the taquitos seam-side down in the oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan by working in batches.
- Drain: Remove the fried taquitos using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towel-lined plates to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the spicy beef taquitos hot, accompanied by your choice of dipping sauces such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for a delicious meal or appetizer.
Notes
- Removing seeds from jalapeño reduces the heat for a milder flavor.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to make the filling less greasy.
- Warming tortillas prevents cracking when rolling the taquitos.
- Frying in batches ensures crispy taquitos without overcrowding the pan.
- Use a thermometer to ensure oil is around 350°F for perfect frying.
- You can substitute beef broth with water if preferred.
- Add more or less cheese based on your taste preferences.
- Leftover taquitos can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
