Oven-Baked Taquitos

Oven-Baked Taquitos are a healthier, lighter version of the classic fried taquito—crispy on the outside, rich and flavorful on the inside, and incredibly easy to prepare. They make an excellent weeknight dinner, party appetizer, freezer meal, or snack for busy days. With customizable fillings and minimal cleanup, these taquitos deliver all the deliciousness of traditional taquitos without the mess or heaviness of deep-frying.

Ingredients

For the Taquitos

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
  (or substitute beef, pork, beans, or a mix)
• 1 cup shredded cheese
  (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup salsa or enchilada sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10–12 corn or flour tortillas
• Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons oil

Optional Add-Ins

• Diced jalapeños
• Chopped cilantro
• Green onions
• Refried beans
• Cream cheese (2–3 tablespoons for a creamy filling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, salsa or enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper. Stir until fully combined.

3. Warm the Tortillas

Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds until soft and flexible.
This prevents cracking during rolling.

4. Fill and Roll

Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto one end of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Crisp the Taquitos

Lightly brush the tops with oil or spray with cooking spray. This helps them brown and crisp.

6. Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden, slightly browned at the edges, and crisp.

7. Serve

Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or queso.

Tips

• Warm your tortillas to prevent cracking.
• Flour tortillas roll more easily, while corn tortillas offer a traditional texture.
• Add cream cheese for a rich, creamy filling.
• Flip halfway through baking for extra crispiness.
• Taste and adjust the filling before rolling.

Variations

• Beef Taquitos: Use seasoned ground beef or shredded beef.
• Vegetarian: Fill with black beans, corn, cheese, and salsa.
• Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne powder.
• Cheesy Taquitos: Increase the cheese and add a spoon of cream cheese.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store baked taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze Before Baking: Assemble, freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp again.

Pairings

• Mexican rice
• Refried beans
• Fresh pico de gallo
• Corn salad
• Simple green salad
• Limeade, iced tea, or sparkling water

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 10–12 taquitos
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired