Name: Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 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; 0.5 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro; 24 (3-inch) Flour Tortillas ((2 packages)); Canola Oil (for frying)

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack or meal, look no further than these crunchy and flavorful Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles. Bursting with a savory filling and a perfectly crisp exterior, these taquitos are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or a cozy night in, these taquitos are a fantastic choice. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles are not just delicious; they are incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste, whether you prefer more heat with jalapeños or a burst of flavor with roasted red peppers. They can be served as appetizers at a party or as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or a side of Ultimate Macho Nachos Recipe. The best part? They freeze beautifully, making them an ideal meal prep option for busy days.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make these scrumptious taquitos, gather the following ingredients:

16 ounces Refried Beans (1 can) – The creamy base that adds flavor and texture.
4.5 ounces Chopped Green Chiles (1 can) – Adds a mild kick and vibrant flavor.
1 ounce Taco Seasoning (1 packet) – Enhances the overall taste with a blend of spices.
1 cup Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese – Provides a gooey, melty texture.
½ cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro – Brings a fresh, herby note to the filling.
24 (3-inch) Flour Tortillas (2 packages) – The vessel for all the delicious fillings.
Canola Oil for Frying – Necessary for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.

Equipment at a Glance

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following equipment:

Large Skillet – For frying the taquitos.
Mixing Bowl – To combine the filling ingredients.
Slotted Spoon – For removing the taquitos from the oil.
Paper Towels – To drain excess oil after frying.
Spatula – For flipping the taquitos with ease.

Stepwise Method: Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the refried beans, chopped green chiles, taco seasoning, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 2: Heat the Tortillas

To make the tortillas pliable, warm them in a skillet over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This helps prevent them from cracking when rolling.

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

Take a warmed tortilla and scoop a generous tablespoon of the filling onto the lower third of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go.

Step 4: Fry the Taquitos

In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of canola oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the oil, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Using a slotted spoon, remove the taquitos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa or guacamole.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

Gluten-Free Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Dairy-Free Cheese: Substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Low-Sodium Beans: Opt for low-sodium or homemade refried beans to reduce salt intake.

Pro Tips & Notes

For extra crunch, let the taquitos rest for a minute on the paper towels before serving.
Feel free to add diced cooked chicken or ground beef to the filling for a heartier option.
For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños to the filling mixture.
Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when frying to maintain the oil temperature.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

These Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles are perfect for batch cooking. Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F until warmed through and crispy, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

See You at the Table

These Taquitos with Cheese, Beans, and Green Chiles are a delightful way to bring friends and family together. With their crisp texture and savory filling, they make the perfect snack or meal. Enjoy the process of making them and savor every bite!