Bean & Cheese Taquitos

Bean & Cheese Taquitos are the ultimate snackable comfort food that bring together simple ingredients in the most satisfying way. Rolled up in crispy tortillas, this dish features a creamy, seasoned bean filling blended with melty cheese—perfectly baked or fried until golden and delicious. These taquitos are inspired by Mexican street food favorites and offer a quick, affordable, and crowd-pleasing option for any time of day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping lunches, or entertaining guests with appetizers, bean and cheese taquitos deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

What makes these taquitos especially great is their versatility. You can make them with pantry staples, freeze them for later, and bake them for a lighter take without sacrificing crunch. They’re also an excellent meatless option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, kids love them just as much as adults do. Serve them with dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, and you’ve got an instant party hit or weeknight win. Whether you’re frying them up for extra crispiness or going the oven-baked route, these taquitos pack a punch of flavor wrapped in a fun, handheld form. Once you try them, you’ll see why they’re such a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy – Minimal prep and cook time with just a few ingredients.
2. Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and freeze for later.
3. Crispy and Cheesy – The combination of crunchy tortillas and melted cheese is irresistible.
4. Great Meatless Option – A filling, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s budget-conscious.
5. Kid and Crowd Friendly – Loved by picky eaters and perfect for parties or snacks.

Ingredients

• Refried beans
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cumin
• Salt
• Optional: chopped green chilies or jalapeños
• Cooking oil (for frying or brushing)

Variations

• Spicy Taquitos: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the bean mixture.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan refried beans.
• Loaded Veggie Taquitos: Add sautéed peppers, onions, or corn for extra texture.
• Air Fryer Friendly: Crisp them up with less oil in an air fryer.
• Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs and a bit of salsa to the filling for a morning version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Filling

In a bowl, mix refried beans, shredded cheese, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt). Optional: fold in green chilies for extra flavor.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

Microwave the tortillas for 20–30 seconds or until soft and pliable. This helps prevent cracking when rolling.

Step 3: Fill and Roll

Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on a tray.

Step 4: Cook

To Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush taquitos lightly with oil and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
To Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry taquitos seam-side down until golden brown on all sides.

Step 5: Serve

Let cool slightly and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use warm tortillas to prevent cracking while rolling.
• Don’t overfill—too much filling can cause taquitos to burst open during cooking.
• Use toothpicks to secure taquitos if needed while frying.
• Keep rolled taquitos covered with a damp towel while prepping the rest to prevent drying out.
• Bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet for extra crispness.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
• Pair with a side salad, Spanish rice, or black beans for a full meal.
• Cut in halves for party platters or appetizers.
• Drizzle with crema and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or cotija cheese for a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked or cooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Keeps well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas work well and may be easier to roll, though the texture will be slightly softer.

2. Are these taquitos gluten-free?

If using corn tortillas and gluten-free ingredients, yes—they can be entirely gluten-free.

3. Can I use canned beans instead of refried?

Yes, mash canned beans (like pinto or black beans) with seasonings and a little oil or broth.

4. What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are perfect for melting and flavor.

5. Can I make them in an air fryer?

Absolutely—air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. How do I prevent the taquitos from unrolling?

Place them seam-side down while cooking, or secure with a toothpick if needed.

7. Can I add protein?

Sure! Add shredded chicken, beef, or crumbled tofu to the filling.

8. What dipping sauces go best?

Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even a creamy chipotle sauce are great options.

9. How do I keep them crispy after baking?

Let them cool slightly on a wire rack to avoid steam making them soggy.

10. Can I reheat them in the microwave?

Yes, but they may lose crispness. For best texture, use an oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

Bean & Cheese Taquitos are a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the bold flavors of Mexican-inspired comfort food. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these golden, crispy rolls that are perfect for snacking, lunch, or dinner. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they deliver on crunch and creaminess every time. Easy to prep, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is a must-have in your kitchen rotation. Try them once and they’ll become a staple for quick meals and tasty gatherings alike.

Print