If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than Air Fryer Taquitos! These little rolled-up delights are crispy on the outside, packed with savory filling on the inside, and full of flavor. Plus, the air fryer makes them incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to set it and get on with your day. Are you excited to bring this tasty twist to your dinner table? Let’s dive in!
What Is Air Fryer Taquitos?
Taquitos are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of small rolled tortillas filled with meat, cheese, or beans, then fried until crispy. Using an air fryer takes this classic recipe to the next level, providing that satisfying crunch without the excess oil. It’s a fantastic choice for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a party bite, showcasing the delightful flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Taquitos
- Convenient: Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time.
- Flavorful: Infused with spices and filled with your favorite ingredients.
- Customizable: Switch up the fillings to suit your family’s tastes.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients you might already have on hand.
- Healthier: Less oil means fewer calories without sacrificing that crispy texture!
How to Make Air Fryer Taquitos
Quick Overview
In just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious Air Fryer Taquitos ready to enjoy. Prepare your filling, roll them up, coat with a light spray of oil, and air fry until golden brown!
Ingredients
- 8 small corn tortillas (flour tortillas work too)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (or ground beef, black beans, etc.)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (adjust for spiciness)
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh cilantro
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cheese, and taco seasoning until well combined.
- Warm the Tortillas: Lightly heat the tortillas in a microwave for about 30 seconds, just enough to make them pliable.
- Assemble: Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling at one end of each tortilla. Roll it up tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the taquitos lightly with cooking spray and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Carefully remove from the air fryer, let cool for a minute, and serve with your favorite garnishes.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Taquitos
- Dips: Pair with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for a flavor boost.
- Salads: A light side salad complements the richness of the taquitos.
- Rice: Spanish rice or cilantro-lime rice makes for a hearty meal.
- Drinks: Serve with a refreshing margarita or a cool glass of lemonade.
- Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, game day, or movie nights!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Taquitos
- Substitutions: Use whatever fillings you like—veggies, cheese, or scrambled eggs can also work!
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust the taco seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Equipment: Ensure your air fryer is preheated for the best results.
- Crispier Taquitos: For extra crispiness, spray a little more oil on top before air frying.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.
- Freezing: Uncooked taquitos can be frozen. Place them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Cook from frozen for an additional 2-3 minutes in the air fryer.
FAQs
- Can I use a different meat? Absolutely! Ground beef, pork, or even a vegetarian option like black beans work brilliantly.
- How spicy are these taquitos? The spice level can be easily adjusted by altering the amount of taco seasoning.
- Can I prep these ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble and freeze them in advance for a quick meal later.
- What can I use instead of cheese? Try using vegan cheese or leave it out for a dairy-free option.
- How long does it take to cook from frozen? Frozen taquitos will take about 10-12 minutes in the air fryer.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Taquitos are sure to become a family favorite! They’re crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to whip up for dinner or a fun snack. So why wait? Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!