Bean & Cheese Taquitos

Bean & Cheese Taquitos are a deliciously simple, crispy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or party appetizer. These rolled tortillas are packed with creamy refried beans and gooey melted cheese, then baked or fried to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for kids, meal prepping for the week, or craving a Mexican-inspired treat, these taquitos are always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
• Perfect for vegetarians and easily customizable
• Great for freezer meals or meal prep
• Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside
• Budget-friendly and kid-approved
• Baked or fried depending on your preference
• Can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish
• Pairs well with dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream
• Great way to use up pantry staples
• Family-friendly recipe that even picky eaters enjoy

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Corn or flour tortillas
• Refried beans (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking or pan-frying)
• Optional: taco seasoning, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavor

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a skillet with oil if pan-frying.
2. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable.
3. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of each tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and any optional add-ins.
5. Roll up the tortillas tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet or skillet.
6. If baking, brush with oil or spray with cooking spray.
7. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
8. If pan-frying, cook until all sides are crispy and golden brown.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 taquitos and serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Mix in shredded chicken, ground beef, or turkey with the beans.
• Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Cheese blend: Use pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas.
• Vegan version: Use vegan cheese and beans without lard.
• Baked or air-fried: Try air-frying at 400°F for 8–10 minutes for an even crispier version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze taquitos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They last up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crispy again.

FAQs

What type of tortilla is best for taquitos?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well too and tend to roll more easily without cracking.

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook. Bake or fry just before serving.

Are taquitos and flautas the same thing?

They’re similar, but taquitos are usually made with corn tortillas, while flautas are typically made with flour tortillas and may be longer.

How do I keep taquitos from unrolling?

Place them seam-side down while cooking and avoid overfilling. You can also use a toothpick to secure them if needed.

Can I bake taquitos instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative and still gets them crispy if you brush or spray them with oil.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melt well and add great flavor.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Bake or air-fry until golden and flip halfway through. Spraying them lightly with oil helps them crisp up.

Can I use canned refried beans?

Absolutely. Canned refried beans work great and save time, but homemade ones are also delicious if you prefer.

Are bean & cheese taquitos vegetarian?

Yes, they are naturally vegetarian if you use vegetarian refried beans (check for lard-free versions).

What dips go well with taquitos?

Try sour cream, guacamole, salsa, queso dip, or chipotle mayo for a variety of flavors.

Conclusion

Bean & Cheese Taquitos are the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and flavor. With a crispy outside and melty, savory filling, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether baked or fried, served as a snack or main, these taquitos are endlessly adaptable and irresistibly tasty. Keep them in your regular rotation for an easy, satisfying meal anytime.

Print