Crispy Homemade Rolled Tacos (Taquitos)
These crispy rolled tacos, also known as taquitos, are filled with seasoned meat and cheese, then baked, fried, or air-fried to golden perfection! Whether you’re making them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, this easy homemade taquitos recipe is packed with authentic Mexican flavors. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
🛒 Precisely Measured Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken or beef
- ½ cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend
- ¼ cup diced onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- ½ cup vegetable oil for frying, if applicable
- Toothpicks to secure the tacos while frying, optional
For Serving:
- Guacamole or avocado slices
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Pico de gallo or salsa
- Shredded lettuce & diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken (or beef), shredded cheese, onions, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until well combined and set aside.
- ✔️ Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Add diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture!
- Step 2: Warm the Tortillas for Easy Rolling
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Warm each tortilla for 15-20 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
- Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out.
- ✔️ Soft tortillas are easier to roll and won’t crack!
- Step 3: Assemble the Rolled Tacos
- Place 2 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of each tortilla.
- Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling, keeping it compact.
- Secure with a toothpick if frying, or place seam-side down if baking.
- ✔️ For extra crispiness, brush the tortillas with a little oil before cooking!
- Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method
- Option 1: Frying (Traditional & Crispiest!)
- Heat ½ cup vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place rolled tacos seam-side down in the oil.
- Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- ✔️ For extra crunch, double fry them for 30 seconds after draining!
- Option 2: Baking (Healthier & Still Crispy!)
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place rolled tacos on a lined baking sheet and lightly brush with oil.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- ✔️ Less oil, same crunch!
- Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy & Oil-Free!)
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange rolled tacos in a single layer and spray lightly with oil.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- ✔️ Air frying is the easiest and healthiest method!
- Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Arrange rolled tacos on a plate and top with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.
- Garnish with lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
- ✔️ Pair with homemade Mexican rice for a complete meal!
Notes
✔️ Make it Spicy – Add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the filling.
✔️ Cheesy Twist – Use queso fresco or pepper jack cheese.
✔️ Vegetarian Option – Swap meat for black beans and sweet potatoes.
✔️ Low-Carb Version – Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps!
✔️ Cheesy Twist – Use queso fresco or pepper jack cheese.
✔️ Vegetarian Option – Swap meat for black beans and sweet potatoes.
✔️ Low-Carb Version – Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps!