Go Back

Homemade Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos Recipe

Crispy Cheesy Beef Taquitos are golden, oven-baked tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese. This easy, restaurant-quality Mexican recipe delivers bold flavor and irresistible crunch, perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or make-ahead meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 90/10 preferred
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup tomato sauce or salsa
  • 2 cups shredded cheese divided (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend)
  • 10 –12 small flour or corn tortillas
  • Cooking spray or oil
  • Sour cream guacamole, or salsa for serving
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook onion in a little oil for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease.
  4. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add tomato sauce and simmer for 2 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheese. Let cool slightly.
  7. Warm tortillas until pliable.
  8. Add about 2 tablespoons filling to each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on baking sheet.
  9. Lightly spray or brush taquitos with oil and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
  10. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and crispy.
  11. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
  12. Cool briefly, garnish, and serve with dipping sauces.

Notes

Drain beef well and warm tortillas before rolling to prevent soggy or cracked taquitos. Baking at high heat ensures maximum crispiness without frying.