frozen taquitos in the air fryer

Air fryer taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy texture, savory fillings, and healthy cooking. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack, an appetizer for a party, or a simple dinner, these rolled tortillas filled with meat, cheese, or veggies deliver big flavor without the mess and calories of deep frying.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best air fryer taquitos, including detailed recipes, variations, serving suggestions, expert tips, and more. We’ll also provide internal links to related recipes that will take your air frying game to the next level.

Why Air Fryer Taquitos Are the Best

Air frying has revolutionized the way we prepare classic comfort foods. Here’s why air fryer taquitos are an unbeatable choice:

• Healthier Option:
  Traditional taquitos are deep-fried, soaking up excess oil. Air frying reduces oil usage by up to 80%, making your taquitos lower in fat and calories.
• Quick and Easy:
  With an air fryer, you can cook taquitos in just 8-10 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Consistent Crispiness:
  The air fryer ensures that your taquitos come out golden brown and crispy every time.
• Less Mess:
  No need to deal with hot oil splatters or messy cleanup.

If you’re new to air frying, try this simple Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe to get comfortable with your appliance.

Ingredients for Perfect Taquitos

Air Fryer Taquitos

Recipe by Air Fryer repastsCourse: Lunch, DinnerCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp taco seasoning

• 0.5 cup salsa

• 8 pieces corn tortillas

• 1 cup shredded cheese

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Directions

• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F for about 5 minutes to ensure it is hot enough for cooking the taquitos.
• In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Add the taco seasoning and salsa, mixing thoroughly.
• Warm the corn tortillas slightly in the microwave to make them pliable and prevent tearing when filling them with the beef mixture.
• Spoon about two tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, top with cheese, and roll them up tightly into a taquito shape.
• Brush each taquito lightly with vegetable oil and place them seam-side down in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding the basket.
• Cook the taquitos in the air fryer at 400 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. Serve immediately.

To make air fryer taquitos, you need just a few key ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:

1. Tortillas

• Corn Tortillas: The traditional choice, providing a crispy texture when air fried.
• Flour Tortillas: Easier to roll and offer a chewier bite.

2. Protein Fillings

• Shredded Chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
• Ground Beef seasoned with taco spices
• Pork Carnitas for a rich, savory flavor
• Black Beans or Refried Beans for a vegetarian option

For more hearty meat dishes, try this Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe.

3. Cheese Options

• Mexican Cheese Blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, queso quesadilla)
• Pepper Jack Cheese for a spicy kick
• Cream Cheese for creaminess

4. Seasonings

• Cumin
• Garlic Powder
• Chili Powder
• Salt and Pepper

5. Extras

• Diced Green Chiles for a burst of flavor
• Onions and Garlic for added depth
• Avocado Oil Spray for crisping

Classic Chicken Air Fryer Taquitos Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup Mexican cheese blend
• 6 corn tortillas
• 2 tablespoons Neufchâtel cheese
• 2 tablespoons diced green chiles
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Avocado oil spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Sauté diced onions until soft.
   • Add minced garlic and green chiles.
   • Stir in shredded chicken, Mexican cheese blend, and Neufchâtel cheese.
   • Season with salt and pepper and cook until the cheese is melted.
2. Warm the Tortillas:
   • Heat tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable. This helps prevent cracking when rolling.
3. Assemble the Taquitos:
   • Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling in each tortilla.
   • Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
4. Air Fry the Taquitos:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
   • Arrange the taquitos in a single layer.
   • Spray lightly with avocado oil.
   • Cook for 6-9 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.

Looking for the perfect side dish? Try these Perfectly Seasoned Air Fryer Potato Wedges.

Delicious Variations to Try

1. Beef Taquitos

• Use seasoned ground beef instead of chicken.
• Add pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.

2. Vegetarian Taquitos

• Fill with black beans, corn, and cheese.
• Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for a burst of flavor.

3. Breakfast Taquitos

• Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
• A great way to start your morning with a protein-packed meal.

4. Seafood Taquitos

• Use shrimp or crab meat mixed with cream cheese and green onions.
• Ideal for seafood lovers who want something unique.

For a unique snack idea, check out these Corn Ribs in the Air Fryer.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Taquitos

• Warm Tortillas First: This prevents them from cracking when rolled.
• Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling makes it difficult to roll the tortillas tightly.
• Use Avocado Oil Spray: A light spray helps achieve a golden-brown finish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches for even crisping.
• Flip Halfway: Ensures both sides get crispy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pair your air fryer taquitos with these delicious sides and dips:

• Guacamole
• Pico de Gallo
• Sour Cream
• Mexican Rice
• Refried Beans

Looking for dessert? Try these Easy 3-Ingredient Air Fryer Desserts to finish your meal on a sweet note.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Overfilling the Tortillas:
   • Keep the filling to about 2-3 tablespoons to ensure easy rolling.
2. Skipping the Warming Step:
   • Warm tortillas to make them more pliable and prevent cracking.
3. Not Using Oil Spray:
   • A light spray of oil helps achieve a crispy texture.
4. Overcrowding the Basket:
   • Give your taquitos enough space to cook evenly.

FAQs About Air Fryer Taquitos

1. Can You Use Flour Tortillas?

Yes! Flour tortillas create a softer, chewier texture compared to corn tortillas.

2. How Do You Keep Taquitos Crispy?

Spray them lightly with avocado oil and cook in a single layer.

3. Can You Freeze Air Fryer Taquitos?

Absolutely! Roll the taquitos and freeze them before air frying. When ready, cook straight from frozen for 8-10 minutes.

4. What Dips Go Best with Taquitos?

• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Queso Dip
• Sour Cream

Enjoy making your own air fryer taquitos with these tips, recipes, and variations. Whether you’re craving chicken, beef, or vegetarian options, the air fryer ensures you get the perfect crunch every time. Happy air frying!