Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further! These easy bean and cheese taquitos are a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a fun appetizer for your next get-together. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated, and this recipe proves it! Get ready to enjoy a burst of Mexican flavors with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for those searching for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can of refried beans
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn or flour tortillas
- Cooking spray
For Serving:
- Your favorite salsa
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Guacamole
- Shredded lettuce
Instructions:
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Prep the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a flavorful base for your taquitos.
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Combine the Ingredients: Add the refried beans, cheddar cheese, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well to combine everything thoroughly.
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Assemble the Taquitos: Lay out your tortillas on a flat surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the bean and cheese mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
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Roll and Bake: Tightly roll each tortilla to form a taquito. If the tortillas are cracking, lightly moisten the edges with water before rolling. This simple trick helps them stick together better.
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Bake to Perfection: Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange the taquitos seam-down on the baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy. You can also air fry them at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, for a crispier, faster option.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the taquitos from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and shredded lettuce. These easy-to-make taquitos are perfect for any occasion.
Tips for the Best Bean and Cheese Taquitos:
- Don't overfill: Overfilling the tortillas will make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during baking.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Using fresh, flavorful ingredients will elevate the taste of your taquitos.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different salsas, cheeses, and other toppings to find your favorite combination. Consider adding some pickled jalapeños or a squeeze of lime for an extra kick!
Variations:
- Spicy Taquitos: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Taquitos: Ensure your refried beans are vegetarian friendly! Adding some finely chopped bell peppers or corn to the filling also adds extra flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans to the filling for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per taquito, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but one taquito will likely contain approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These easy bean and cheese taquitos are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. Enjoy this simple, delicious, and satisfying meal! They're perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or any time you're craving a quick and tasty bite. They also make fantastic leftovers, perfect for packing for lunch the next day!