Spicy Beef Taquitos

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon chili powder

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

¼ teaspoon oregano

½ teaspoon paprika

1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 lb 95% lean ground beef

½ cup salsa (I used medium heat, but feel free to adjust to your preferences)

3 oz 50% reduced fat Pepper Jack cheese, shredded (I used Cabot)

16 6” corn tortillas (I used Mission Extra Thin Yellow Corn)

Instructions:

Step 1:

Pre-heat the oven to 400. Line a baking sheet with foil and then lightly mist it with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2:

Combine the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt and pepper in a dish and stir together to make your own taco seasoning.

Set aside.

Step 3:

Bring a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.

Cook while breaking up with a wooden spoon until beef is completely browned and broken into small pieces.

Drain any grease from the pan.

Add the taco seasoning from step 2 and the salsa and stir together until well combined.

Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and add the shredded cheese.

Stir to combine.

Step 4:

Place about half the tortillas between two paper towels and microwave them for 30-60 seconds until they are warm and pliable.

Place a tortilla on a clean, dry work surface and then scoop two rounded tablespoons of beef filling onto the bottom third of the tortilla.

Roll the tortilla up from the bottom to surround the filling and once it’s rolled into a tube, place it on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.

Repeat steps with the remaining ingredients (including microwaving the other half of the tortillas when you get to them).

When all the taquitos are rolled and on the baking sheet, mist the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray.

Step 5:

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until tortillas start to get golden and crispy.

Enjoy !!

Notes:

Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness of the taquitos by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and choosing a salsa with your preferred heat level.

Ingredient Substitutions: Explore different protein options such as ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian alternatives like seasoned beans or tofu for varied dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate them, then bake when ready for a quick and tasty meal.

Freezer-Friendly: These taquitos can be frozen before baking. After assembly, freeze them until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, extending the baking time slightly.

Versatile Dipping Options: Serve taquitos with a range of dipping sauces like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or spicy chipotle sauce to complement the flavors.

Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese types such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or cheddar to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the corn tortillas used are certified gluten-free to accommodate gluten-free diets.

Vegetable Additions: Enhance the filling by incorporating diced bell peppers, onions, or cooked black beans for added texture and flavor.

Tortilla Options: While corn tortillas are traditionally used, you can substitute with flour tortillas if preferred, noting that they may alter the texture and taste slightly.

Baking Tips: For crispy results, mist the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray before baking, and monitor them closely to achieve golden perfection.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 2 taquitos

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef for these taquitos?

Yes, you can use other meats such as ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless option like seasoned beans or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Is there a milder version of the taquitos for those who can’t handle too much spice?

Absolutely! You can adjust the level of spiciness by reducing or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes and using a mild salsa instead of medium or hot.

Can I make the taquitos ahead of time and reheat them later?

Yes, you can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and refrigerate them.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, preheat the oven and bake until they are warm and crispy.

Can I freeze the taquitos for future use?

Yes, you can freeze the taquitos before baking them. Place the assembled taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.

Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw, just increase the baking time slightly.

Can I serve these taquitos with any dipping sauce?

Absolutely! You can serve these taquitos with your favorite dipping sauce, such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or a spicy chipotle sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use different types of cheese for the taquitos?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese according to your preference.

Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even regular cheddar cheese can be good alternatives.

Can I make these taquitos gluten-free?

To make the taquitos gluten-free, ensure that the corn tortillas you use are certified gluten-free.

Most corn tortillas are gluten-free, but it’s essential to check the packaging to confirm.

Are there any vegetable additions that would complement the spicy beef filling?

Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, onions, or even cooked black beans to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer.

Keep in mind that flour tortillas may have a slightly different texture and taste, but they will still work well for making taquitos.