There’s something irresistible about the crackle of fried taquitos fresh from the pan, their golden-brown edges inviting you to take a bite. I found myself craving a comforting snack after a long day, one that would bring a taste of home to my kitchen without too much fuss. Enter my Crispy Bean & Cheese Taquitos—an easy recipe that brings together creamy refried beans and gooey cheese, perfectly rolled in soft tortillas.
This crowd-pleaser is a delightful appetizer for gatherings or can shine as a quick weeknight dinner when paired with a fresh salsa and fluffy rice. Even better, you can choose to fry them for that ideal crisp or bake them for a lighter option, ensuring everyone at the table is happy—in no time at all. Ready to turn your kitchen into a taquito haven? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Why Love These Bean & Cheese Taquitos?
Simplicity Meets Flavor: Whipping up these taquitos is a breeze, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether hosting a party or just feeding the family, these crispy bites are sure to win hearts.
Versatile Options: Choose to fry for that golden crunch or bake for a healthier twist—it’s all up to you!
Comforting & Satisfying: With creamy beans and gooey cheese, every bite brings comfort reminiscent of homemade love.
Easy Customization: Feel free to mix in additional ingredients like chicken or jalapeños for a personal touch.
Quick to Prepare: Who has time to spend hours in the kitchen? These taquitos come together in no time!
Bean & Cheese Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
• Refried Beans – Provides a creamy base and acts as the filling; use black beans for a different flavor profile.
• Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese (2 oz.) – Adds a spicy flavor and gooey texture; substitute cheddar cheese for a milder taste.
• Chili Powder (2 tsp.) – Enhances flavor and adds mild heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Ground Cumin (1 tsp.) – Adds earthy undertones to the filling.
• Canned Green Chiles (4 oz.), drained – Adds a mild heat and flavor depth.
• Minced Garlic (1 clove) – Infuses the filling with delicious flavor.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste.
For the Tortillas
• Small Corn or Flour Tortillas (12) – Serves as the vessel for the filling; use flour for softer wraps or corn for gluten-free options.
For Frying/Baking
• Neutral Oil (for frying) – Essential for crisp frying; use avocado or canola oil for a healthier option.
For Serving
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (4 oz.) – Adds richness and classic cheesy flavor; any melty cheese can be used.
• Sour Cream (1/2 cup) – Balances flavors with creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro (1/4 cup) – Fresh herb garnish for brightness; optional to omit if not a fan.
• Fresh Lime Juice (1 Tbsp.) – Enhances flavors and adds a refreshing acidity.
These ingredients combine to create the delicious Bean & Cheese Taquitos that are sure to become a beloved favorite in your home!
How to Make Bean & Cheese Taquitos
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Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine refried beans, pepper jack cheese, chili powder, cumin, green chiles, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
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Assemble Taquitos: Take a small amount of filling and place it in the center of a tortilla. Roll it tightly, tucking in the sides as needed, and secure with a toothpick if desired.
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Cooking Method:
- For Frying: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the taquitos and fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- For Baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for roughly 15 minutes, until they are crispy.
- Serve Warm: Plate the taquitos and serve them with sour cream, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
Optional: Add some fresh salsa or guacamole for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bean & Cheese Taquitos Variations
Ready to make these Bean & Cheese Taquitos your own? The possibilities are endless, and they’re as fun to customize as they are to eat!
- Protein-Packed: Add diced cooked chicken or black beans for a heartier filling. This twist not only adds protein but also amplifies the flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or diced serrano peppers for an extra punch of heat. Spice lovers will rejoice with every crunchy bite!
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a different melt and taste experience. Each cheese brings its unique flavor; try them all to find your favorite!
- Herbed Delight: Mix in herbs like cilantro, parsley, or green onions into the filling for a fresh burst of flavor. This adds brightness and elevates each taquito.
- Sweet & Spicy: For a flavor adventure, add some diced pineapple or mango with the filling. This delightful blend of sweetness and spice will surprise your taste buds!
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the sour cream, replacing it with avocado or a creamy vegan sauce for a delicious vegan-friendly adaptation.
- Crunchy Coating: For an extra layer of texture, roll your assembled taquitos in crushed tortilla chips before frying. This will create a wonderfully crunchy exterior.
- Layout Play: Try using large flour tortillas instead of small ones for giant taquitos! These can be sliced into pieces for a fun sharing platter.
Let your culinary creativity shine, and enjoy every variation of these delightful taquitos!
What to Serve with Bean & Cheese Taquitos?
Elevate your taquito experience with these delicious side pairings that bring balance and zest to your meal.
- Fresh Salsa: A vibrant and zesty salsa adds a burst of flavor and freshness, enhancing the cheesy goodness of the taquitos. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole provides a delightful contrast to the crispy texture of the taquitos while bringing in a cool, flavorful element.
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy Spanish rice seasoned with herbs complements the taquitos perfectly, offering a satisfying and hearty side that’s a staple in many homes.
- Crispy Lettuce Salad: A light and crunchy salad brings a refreshing element that balances the richness of the taquitos, making each bite feel wholesome.
- Sour Cream Dip: Serve with a tangy sour cream dip for a creamy touch that rounds out the flavors excellently—perfect for those creamy-crunchy cravings!
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or buttery corn on the cob is a fun side that adds sweetness and a pop of color to your plate while echoing the Mexican flair.
- Margaritas or Horchata: Accompany your meal with a refreshing margarita for a festive touch or a soothing glass of horchata for a sweet, creamy drink that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
- Churros for Dessert: End your feast with some warm churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, offering a sweet, crunchy finish that’s just right after savory delights.
Make Ahead Options
These Bean & Cheese Taquitos are fantastic for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the filling (refried beans, cheese, spices, and green chiles) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble, simply fill and roll the tortillas, then freeze the assembled taquitos for up to 3 months. To maintain their quality, place parchment paper between them before freezing to prevent sticking. When it’s time to eat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, ensuring you enjoy crispy, delightful taquitos that are just as delicious as fresh!
Storage Tips for Bean & Cheese Taquitos
- Room Temperature: Serve your taquitos immediately for the best flavor and texture. If leftovers are present, store them for no more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure safety.
- Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or skillet for the best results, maintaining crispiness.
- Freezer: To freeze your taquitos, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F until heated through.
- Reheating: For crispy results, reheat baked or fried taquitos in an oven instead of a microwave to avoid sogginess. Enjoy those delicious Bean & Cheese Taquitos once again!
Expert Tips for Bean & Cheese Taquitos
- Preheat Oil: Ensure the oil is fully heated before frying taquitos to achieve maximum crispiness and avoid sogginess.
- Avoid Overfilling: Use just enough filling to keep the taquitos sealed. Overfilling can lead to bursting during cooking.
- Monitoring the Fry: Watch closely as they fry; a few seconds can make the difference between golden and burnt.
- Baking Option: For a lighter dish, opt to bake taquitos. Brush lightly with oil and bake until crispy for a healthier alternative.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro adds brightness, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it or substitute with parsley for a different touch.
- Mix it Up: Don’t hesitate to customize your Bean & Cheese Taquitos with extras like jalapeños or diced chicken for varied flavors!
Bean & Cheese Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What kind of beans should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Refried beans are traditional for their creamy texture, but you can use black beans for a different flavor profile. Just mash them up a bit for easier filling.
How should I store leftover taquitos?
To keep your leftover taquitos fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in an oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. This method maintains their delightful crunch rather than steaming them in the microwave.
Can I freeze my Bean & Cheese Taquitos?
Yes, you can! To freeze before cooking, wrap each taquito individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy, usually around 20-25 minutes.
How can I avoid taquitos bursting while cooking?
Very! To prevent bursting, ensure you don’t overfill the tortillas. Use just enough filling to allow for rolling, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. If they start to burst, you can also secure them with a toothpick during cooking.
Are these taquitos suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, these Bean & Cheese Taquitos are vegetarian-friendly! They feature beans and cheese as the main ingredients, making them a great source of plant-based protein. However, if you have any concerns regarding dietary restrictions or allergies, always check the ingredient labels—especially for potential allergens in the cheese and tortillas used.
Delicious Bean & Cheese Taquitos You’ll Love in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine refried beans, pepper jack cheese, chili powder, cumin, green chiles, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
- Take a small amount of filling and place it in the center of a tortilla. Roll it tightly, tucking in the sides as needed, and secure with a toothpick if desired.
- For Frying: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the taquitos and fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- For Baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for roughly 15 minutes, until they are crispy.
- Plate the taquitos and serve them with sour cream, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.