There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of crispy taquitos, isn’t there? Every time I make Shredded Beef Taquitos, I’m instantly transported back to taco night with my family. I remember my mom frying up those crunchy delights in our little kitchen, the aroma filling the air and bringing all of us to the table, ready for an unforgettable feast. The perfect blend of spices, with tender, juicy beef rolled up tightly in a corn tortilla, is a match made in heaven!
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip these up for a casual weeknight dinner, serve them at a party, or even make them for a cozy movie night at home. Plus, they’re customizable! Whether you prefer extra cheese, guacamole, or a zesty salsa to accompany them, the options are endless. Let me guide you through making your own delicious batch of Shredded Beef Taquitos!
What’s in Shredded Beef Taquitos?
Beef Chuck Roast: This is the star of the show! A chuck roast is perfect for slow cooking and becomes wonderfully tender. I usually choose a good quality piece from my local butcher.
Spices: I use a blend of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder to bring out that authentic Mexican flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your heat preference!
Fresh Garlic and Onion: Nothing beats the aromatic duo of garlic and onion. They’re sautéed to perfection before adding the beef, making the whole dish smell divine.
Beef Broth: This keeps our beef moist while it cooks in the slow cooker. It really enriches the flavor as the beef shreds and soaks up all the goodness.
Corn Tortillas: I prefer smaller tortillas for taquitos as they hold the shape beautifully when rolled. Check for the freshest ones at your grocery store!
Oil: For frying, I like to use canola or vegetable oil; they have a high smoke point which is perfect for getting those taquitos nice and crispy.
Is Shredded Beef Taquitos Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health for a moment. While Shredded Beef Taquitos are undeniably delicious, moderation is key. Here’s the breakdown:
Beef Chuck Roast: High in protein and iron, it’s a great part of your diet but can be high in fats, especially if you don’t trim it well. Opting for lean cuts or trimming the excess fat can help!
Fresh Ingredients: The garlic and onion not only add flavor but also contain various health benefits, including antioxidants and vitamins.
Frying: Since we’re frying the taquitos, they can be quite oily. To make them a bit healthier, you could also bake them instead. Baking gives you a similar crispiness without all the oil.
Overall, enjoy your taquitos as an occasional treat paired with fresh veggies or a side salad for balance!
Ingredients List
– 2 lbs Beef Chuck Roast (bone-in for more flavor)
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 corn tortillas
– Oil for frying (or spray if baking)
*Serves 4-6, depending on appetites!*
How to Make Shredded Beef Taquitos?
1. **Prepare the Beef:** In a slow cooker, combine the beef chuck roast, diced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
2. **Cook:** Cook on low for about 8 hours or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork. This is where the magic happens!
3. **Shred the Beef:** Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it cool for a few minutes. Shred with two forks and mix back in with the cooking juices for extra flavor.
4. **Warm the Tortillas:** In a skillet, warm the corn tortillas (a few at a time) over low heat to make them pliable.
5. **Fill and Roll:** Place a couple of spoonfuls of the shredded beef in the center of each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place seam-side down.
6. **Fry the Taquitos:** Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the taquitos in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re golden and crispy.
7. **Drain and Serve:** Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings—guacamole, salsa, or sour cream are my go-tos!
Extra Tips for Perfect Taquitos!
– **Baking Option:** If you prefer a healthier version, brush the taquitos lightly with oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy!
– **Keep Filling Variations:** Feel free to experiment with fillings! Shredded chicken, vegetarian options like black beans, or even cheese can also be delicious!
– **Freeze for Later:** Make a big batch and freeze uncooked taquitos; just fry or bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready!
Making Shredded Beef Taquitos is a real joy, and I can’t wait for you to give them a try. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them solo, they’re bound to bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the taquito magic unfold. Let me know how they turn out, and happy cooking!
