Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (454g) Ground Beef (80/20)
  • ½ small Onion, finely diced (½ cup/50g)
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced (1 tsp)
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder
  • ½ tsp Ground Cumin
  • ½ tsp Smoked Paprika
  • Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup (120ml) Salsa
  • 1 cup (100g) Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • 12 small Corn or Flour Tortillas (6-inch/15cm diameter)
  • Optional: Oil for frying or cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Cook briefly to release the flavors.
  3. Stir in the salsa and shredded cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  4. Warm the tortillas in the microwave to make them more pliable and prevent cracking.
  5. Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, about 2 tablespoons. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet or plate.
  6. Choose Your Cooking Method: Baking: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place taquitos on a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush or spray with oil. Bake until golden and crispy. Frying: Heat oil in a skillet. Fry taquitos until golden and crispy, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels. Air Frying: Spray taquitos lightly with oil. Air fry until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
  7. Serve the taquitos immediately with your favorite toppings.