Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles
There’s something deeply satisfying about a crunchy taquito filled with warm, cheesy goodness. These Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles are not just a delightful snack; they’re a meal that brings people together. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day, a cozy family dinner, or just a simple weeknight treat. The combination of flavors is irresistible, and the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make at home!
Why It’s My Go-To
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily customize the filling to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Second, they’re crowd-pleasers. Everyone loves the crispy exterior and the cheesy, flavorful filling. Finally, they are a fantastic make-ahead dish. Whether you’re preparing for a party or meal prepping for the week, these taquitos are a winner every time.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 16 ounces Refried Beans (1 can)
- 4.5 ounces Chopped Green Chiles (1 can)
- 1 ounce Taco Seasoning (1 packet)
- 1 cup Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese
- 1 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro
- 24 (3-inch) Flour Tortillas (2 packages)
- Canola Oil for frying
Cook’s Kit
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the filling ingredients.
- Frying Pan or Skillet: A large, deep pan works best for frying the taquitos.
- Spatula: Essential for flipping your taquitos without breaking them.
- Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
- Serving Plate: To showcase your delicious taquitos.
Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 16 ounces of refried beans, 4.5 ounces of chopped green chiles, and 1 ounce of taco seasoning. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The flavors will meld beautifully, creating a savory filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Add the Cheese and Cilantro
Next, fold in 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese and 1 cup of chopped fresh cilantro into the bean mixture. This adds creaminess and a fresh kick that elevates the filling to new heights.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
To make the tortillas more pliable, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This step is crucial, as it prevents the tortillas from cracking when you roll them.
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
Place a generous spoonful of the filling onto each tortilla, then roll it tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure the taquito with a toothpick if necessary, but it’s usually not needed if rolled tightly.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan, heat enough canola oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium heat. You’ll want about 1/2 inch of oil for frying.
Step 6: Fry the Taquitos
Once the oil is hot (test by dropping a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle), carefully add the taquitos to the pan, seam side down. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Using a spatula, transfer the fried taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
No-Store Runs Needed
- Refried beans can be swapped with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer a different flavor.
- Chopped green chiles can be substituted with jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Any cheese can work in this recipe; feel free to use cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Flour tortillas can be replaced with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Cook’s Commentary
These Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles are a fantastic way to use leftover ingredients. If you have some cooked chicken or beef lying around, feel free to add it to the filling for extra protein. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
These taquitos also freeze beautifully! After frying, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be reheated in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes or in an air fryer for a quick and crispy snack. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Reader Questions
Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying them?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the assembled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
What type of beans can I use instead of refried beans?
You can use black beans, pinto beans, or even homemade refried beans. Just mash them up a bit before mixing with the other ingredients to achieve a similar texture.
How do I store leftover taquitos?
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best results. Microwaving can make them soggy, so it’s best to avoid that if possible.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even corn. Just make sure any additional ingredients are cooked and cooled before adding to the filling to avoid soggy taquitos.
Bring It Home
These Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles are not just a dish; they’re a delicious experience waiting to happen. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, flavorful filling, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this culinary adventure. You won’t regret it!
Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying them as a midnight snack, these taquitos are bound to become a beloved recipe in your home. Embrace the joy of cooking and the satisfaction of sharing good food with those you love. Happy cooking!
Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, chopped green chiles, and taco seasoning. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the shredded Mexican blend cheese and chopped fresh cilantro into the bean mixture.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Place a generous spoonful of the filling onto each tortilla and roll it tightly, tucking in the sides.
- Heat enough canola oil in a large frying pan to cover the bottom over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the taquitos seam side down and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried taquitos to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
- Swap refried beans with black or pinto beans for a different flavor.
- Use jalapeños instead of green chiles for extra heat.
- Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
