Name: Baked Beef Taquitos: The Ultimate Recipe & Guide
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 20-24 taquitos
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended); 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained; 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning; 1/2 cup beef broth (or water); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 20-24 corn tortillas (6-inch size); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a blend); Cooking spray; Sour cream; Guacamole; Salsa; Shredded lettuce; Diced tomatoes; Chopped green onions

Baked Beef Taquitos: Crispy, savory, and utterly irresistible! Forget ordering takeout tonight because I'm about to share a recipe that will have you making restaurant-quality taquitos right in your own kitchen. These aren't just any taquitos; they're baked, making them a healthier and equally delicious alternative to their fried counterparts.

Taquitos, meaning "little tacos," have a rich history rooted in Mexican cuisine. While their exact origins are debated, they've become a beloved staple, evolving from simple street food to a popular dish enjoyed worldwide. The beauty of the taquito lies in its versatility. You can fill them with almost anything, but today, we're focusing on a classic: seasoned ground beef.

What makes baked beef taquitos so universally appealing? It's the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown tortilla gives way to a savory, flavorful beef filling. They're incredibly easy to customize with your favorite toppings – think salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese! Plus, baking them instead of frying means you can indulge without the extra grease. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a fun snack, these baked beef taquitos are guaranteed to be a hit. So, let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Beef Filling:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Taquitos:

20-24 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Cooking spray

Optional Toppings:

Sour cream
Guacamole
Salsa
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Chopped green onions

Preparing the Beef Filling:

Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Getting a good sear on the beef adds a lot of flavor, so don't be afraid to let it get nicely browned.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the peppers to lose some of their crispness.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Then, stir in the taco seasoning. Cook for 30 seconds, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aroma. This step is crucial for developing the full flavor of the filling.
Simmer the Filling: Add the diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), black beans, and beef broth (or water) to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to thicken slightly. If the filling seems too dry, add a little more beef broth or water. If it's too wet, remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Finish the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the cheese will also add salt, so don't over-salt the filling. Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the taquitos. This will make them easier to handle and prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.

Warming the Tortillas:

This is a crucial step! Corn tortillas are notorious for cracking when rolled, especially if they're cold. Warming them makes them pliable and prevents them from tearing.

Microwave Method: Stack the corn tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until they are warm and pliable. Keep them wrapped in the damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tortillas in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warm and pliable.
Skillet Method: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla individually for a few seconds per side, until pliable. Keep the warmed tortillas stacked and covered with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and prevent them from drying out.

Assembling the Taquitos:

Prepare Your Work Station: Have your warmed tortillas, beef filling, shredded cheese, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat ready.
Fill the Tortillas: Working with one tortilla at a time, place about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef filling down the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the filling. Don't overfill the tortillas, or they will be difficult to roll and may burst during baking.
Roll the Taquitos: Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling, starting from one end and rolling towards the other. Try to keep the filling tucked in as you roll.
Place on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled taquito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This will help prevent them from unrolling during baking.
Repeat: Repeat steps 2-4 with the remaining tortillas, filling, and cheese.

Baking the Taquitos:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray. This will help them crisp up and brown nicely in the oven. You can also brush them with a little olive oil for a similar effect.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
Cool Slightly: Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and prevent you from burning your mouth.

Serving Suggestions:

These baked beef taquitos are delicious served with a variety of toppings. Here are some of my favorites:

Sour cream
Guacamole
Salsa (mild, medium, or hot – your choice!)
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Chopped green onions

You can also serve them with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Make Ahead: You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Freezing: These taquitos freeze well. Assemble them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen taquitos to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 2 months. To bake, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake from frozen for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling for a spicy kick. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning.
Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
Air Fryer Option: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Preventing Soggy Taquitos: To prevent soggy taquitos, make sure to drain the beef filling well and avoid overfilling the tortillas. Also, baking them on a wire rack placed on top of the baking sheet can help to circulate air and keep them crispy.

Enjoy your homemade Baked Beef Taquitos!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Baked Beef Taquitos are more than just a recipe; they're a gateway to a satisfying and flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to whip up. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a fun snack for game day. The combination of the savory, seasoned beef, the crispy tortilla, and your favorite toppings is simply irresistible. What makes these taquitos so special is their versatility. While I've shared my go-to recipe, feel free to experiment with different fillings. Ground chicken or turkey would work beautifully, or you could even try a vegetarian version with black beans, corn, and your favorite spices. Don't be afraid to get creative and tailor the recipe to your own taste preferences!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Beyond the filling, the possibilities for serving and variations are endless. For a classic experience, serve these Baked Beef Taquitos with a generous dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a side of your favorite salsa. Guacamole is another fantastic addition, adding a creamy and refreshing element to the dish. If you're looking to elevate your taquito game, consider these variations: * Spicy Taquitos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick. * Cheesy Taquitos: Mix shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the beef filling for a gooey and cheesy delight. * Creamy Taquitos: Drizzle a creamy cilantro-lime sauce over the baked taquitos for a burst of fresh flavor. * Taquito Bowls: Deconstruct the taquitos and create a bowl with rice, beans, lettuce, and all your favorite toppings. I personally love to serve these with a simple side salad for a complete and balanced meal. A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the taquitos perfectly. But the real magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's a recipe that even beginner cooks can master, and it's a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Plus, baking the taquitos instead of frying them makes them a healthier option without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of homemade Baked Beef Taquitos. I'm confident that you'll love them as much as I do. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you've made them, I'd love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What toppings did you use? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments below – I can't wait to see your creations! Happy cooking!