Name: Homemade Taquitos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 12 corn or flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, beef, or beans; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend); 1/4 cup onion, finely minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (plus more for brushing or frying); 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin, chili powder, paprika); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup salsa, diced green chilies, or chopped jalapeños

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade taquitos are simple to make and far more flavorful than store-bought versions. You can control the ingredients, adjust the seasonings, and choose your cooking method—bake for a healthier version or fry for maximum crunch. They’re highly versatile and freezer-friendly, making them great for meal prep or entertaining. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping into salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Ingredients

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

Corn or flour tortillas
Shredded cooked chicken, beef, or beans
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Onion and garlic (minced)
Olive oil or vegetable oil (for brushing or frying)
Taco seasoning or your own spice blend (cumin, chili powder, paprika)
Salt and pepper
Optional: salsa, green chilies, or jalapeños for extra flavor

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat oil in a skillet for frying.
In a bowl, combine shredded meat or beans, cheese, spices, and any optional add-ins like salsa or chilies.
Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable.
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling along one edge of each tortilla.
Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it seam-side down.
For baking: Place on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 15–20 minutes until crisp and golden.
For frying: Heat oil in a skillet and fry each taquito seam-side down until crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dips.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 taquitos. Prep time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is 15–20 minutes for baking or 10–15 minutes for frying. Total time is around 35–40 minutes.

Variations

Vegetarian Taquitos: Use refried beans, black beans, or mashed sweet potatoes with cheese and veggies.
Breakfast Taquitos: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, or veggies.
Spicy Taquitos: Add chopped jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Seafood Version: Use cooked shrimp or white fish with a spicy slaw or creamy filling.
Air Fryer Taquitos: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until crispy.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–10 minutes until hot and crisp. You can also microwave them for a quick option, though they’ll be less crispy. To freeze, place taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen.

FAQs

What’s the difference between taquitos and flautas?

Taquitos are typically made with corn tortillas, while flautas use flour tortillas and are usually longer in shape.

Can I bake instead of fry taquitos?

Yes, baking is a healthier option and still yields crispy results when brushed with oil.

How do I keep taquitos from unrolling while cooking?

Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down. You can also secure them with a toothpick if needed.

Can I make taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage.

What are the best dipping sauces?

Salsa, sour cream, guacamole, queso, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce are all great options.

Can I use leftover meat?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken, beef, perfectly in taquitos.

Are taquitos gluten-free?

They can be if you use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Why do my tortillas crack when rolling?

They may be too cold. Warm them in a microwave or skillet to soften before rolling.

Can I make these dairy-free?

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

Are taquitos kid-friendly?

Definitely! They’re fun to eat, easy to hold, and you can adjust the filling to suit kids’ tastes.

Conclusion

Homemade taquitos are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a crispy, satisfying meal or snack. With endless filling options and simple preparation, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or freezer-friendly meal prep. Whether you bake, fry, or air fry them, these taquitos are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.