Ultimate Crispy Beef Taquitos with Melted Cheese & Fresh Toppings

 

Crispy Beef Taquitos with Melted Cheese and Sour Cream

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (or your favorite cheese)
• 10–12 small corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil for frying

For Serving

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Fresh lime wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.

3. Season the Beef: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Add the beef broth, simmering for about 3–5 minutes until most of the liquid evaporates. Remove from heat, stir in the chopped cilantro, and set aside.

4. Prepare the Taquitos:

   • Soften Tortillas: Briefly warm each tortilla in a dry skillet over medium heat or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds until soft and pliable.
   • Assemble: Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of shredded cheese onto each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick to keep them from opening while frying.

5. Fry the Taquitos:

   • In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When hot (around 350°F/175°C), carefully place 3–4 taquitos in the skillet, seam side down.
   • Fry for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve: Arrange the crispy taquitos on a platter. Drizzle or dollop with sour cream, sprinkle with green onions and cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for Extra Flavor:

• Add a little shredded cheese on top of each taquito right after frying for extra meltiness.
• Top with pickled jalapeños or a fresh tomato salsa for an extra kick.

These taquitos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Perfect for dipping in sour cream or your favorite salsa. Enjoy!