Baked Red Chile Ground Beef Taquitos
Introducing our savory and satisfying Baked Red Chile Ground Beef Taquitos! This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors with seasoned ground beef, onions, and garlic rolled up in warm flour tortillas and baked until golden and crispy.
Each bite is filled with tender beef, melted cheese, and just the right amount of spice, making these taquitos perfect for a family-friendly dinner or game day snack. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, these taquitos are sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delicious dish!
How to make Baked Red Chile Ground Beef Taquitos
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus more vegetable oil, for brushing on the taquitos
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
3⁄4 lb lean ground beef
1⁄2 cup red chile, plus more red chile, for dipping
2 teaspoons chili powder
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
10 (6 inch) flour tortillas
1⁄2 cup cheddar cheese or 1/2 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded
sour cream
Instructions:
Step 1:
Heat the oven to 400°.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook them for 3 minutes, stirring often.
Add the beef and use a wooden spoon or a spatula to break it up while it cooks, until it is no longer red, about 3 minutes.
Stir in 1/2 cup of the red chile, the chili powder, and the salt and pepper.
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.
Step 2:
Place the tortillas on a plate and cover them with damp paper towels.
Microwave them until warm and pliable, about 45 seconds.
Top each tortilla with 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture, spreading it to an inch from the edges.
Sprinkle cheese evenly over the beef.
Step 3:
Roll up the tortillas and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet with the seam sides down.
Brush the taquitos lightly with vegetable oil, then bake them until the filling is heated through and the tortillas are lightly browned, about 8 to 12 minutes.
Serve them hot with sour cream and/or salsa.
Notes:
Flavorful Filling: The ground beef mixture is seasoned with red chile, garlic, and onion, providing a deliciously savory and slightly spicy filling for the taquitos.
Convenient Assembly: Microwave-warming the tortillas makes them pliable and easy to roll, while the assembly process is straightforward, requiring just a few tablespoons of the beef mixture and cheese for each taquito.
Healthier Option: Baking the taquitos instead of frying them reduces the amount of oil used, making this recipe a healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos.
Customizable: Feel free to customize the filling by adjusting the level of spiciness or adding additional ingredients such as diced peppers or beans for extra flavor and texture.
Kid-Friendly: These taquitos are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for quick assembly later. You can also freeze the assembled taquitos before baking for an easy freezer-friendly meal option.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve the taquitos as appetizers, snacks, or a main course. They pair well with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or any of your favorite dipping sauces.
Crispy Texture: Brushing the taquitos with oil before baking helps them achieve a crispy golden exterior, adding to their deliciousness.
Easy Cleanup: Lining the baking sheet with foil makes cleanup a breeze, ensuring minimal mess after enjoying these tasty taquitos.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these baked red chile ground beef taquitos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, satisfying everyone’s cravings for delicious Mexican-inspired flavors.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 taquito
Calories: 240 | Fat: Around 12 grams | Carbohydrates: 20 grams | Protein: 10 grams | Fiber: less than 2 grams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for this recipe?
While flour tortillas are typically used for taquitos, you can certainly try corn tortillas if you prefer.
Just keep in mind that corn tortillas may require a different cooking method or time.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the lean ground beef to make a lighter version of the taquitos.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can omit the ground beef and use cooked black beans or a meat substitute such as crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with taco seasoning.
Can I make these taquitos ahead of time and reheat them?
Yes, you can prepare the taquitos ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
However, they may lose some crispiness upon reheating.
What is red chile, and where can I find it?
Red chile typically refers to a type of chili pepper or chili sauce.
You can find it in the international or Hispanic section of most grocery stores, or you can make your own red chile sauce using dried red chilies.
Can I freeze these taquitos for later?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked taquitos in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these taquitos besides sour cream and salsa?
These taquitos pair well with guacamole, pico de gallo, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Can I adjust the spice level of the filling?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of red chile, chili powder, and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
You can also add additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Can I make these taquitos in an air fryer instead of baking them?
Yes, you can try cooking the taquitos in an air fryer for a crispy texture.
Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
Are these taquitos kid-friendly?
These taquitos are generally kid-friendly, but you can customize the filling to suit your children’s taste preferences.
You can also involve them in the assembly process for a fun cooking activity!