Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, these Cheesy Beef Taquito Rolls are a delicious blend of seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, wrapped in golden tortillas or egg roll wrappers. Whether baked or fried, they’re a fantastic choice for party appetizers, after-school snacks, or a casual dinner with a flavorful punch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These taquito rolls are everything you want in a comfort food—easy to make, kid-approved, and full of savory, cheesy goodness. They can be baked or fried to suit your preference, and they hold up well for dipping in sauces like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Their handheld format makes them ideal for gatherings, game nights, or simply spicing up a weeknight meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1½ cups shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
8 flour tortillas or egg roll wrappers
1 egg (for sealing edges)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Oil for frying or brushing if baking

directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully done and any moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Lay out tortillas or wrappers on a clean surface. Spoon a portion of the beef mixture near one edge, then top with shredded cheese.
Roll tightly, sealing the edge with beaten egg to keep it closed.
For frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet. Fry each roll until golden and crispy.
For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 15–20 minutes until crisp and golden.
Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or a meat alternative.
Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Mini Rolls: Cut tortillas in half for smaller, bite-sized versions ideal for appetizers.
Add Veggies: Mix in corn, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover taquito rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until hot and crispy. For quick reheating, microwave for 1–2 minutes, though the texture will be softer. These rolls also freeze well—wrap them individually and reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to a day before frying or baking.

Can I freeze taquito rolls?

Absolutely. Freeze before or after cooking. For best results, bake them from frozen rather than thawing.

What sauces go well with these?

Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, chipotle mayo, or queso dip all pair wonderfully.

Are egg roll wrappers better than tortillas?

Egg roll wrappers yield a crispier texture, while tortillas provide a softer bite. Both work well depending on your preference.

Can I air fry these?

Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning once, until golden and crispy.

How do I prevent them from unrolling during cooking?

Seal the edge well with beaten egg and place them seam-side down while cooking.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a lighter alternative.

What cheese melts best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and Monterey Jack both melt smoothly and create a gooey texture, but cheddar adds a sharper flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortillas or wrappers and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with taquito rolls?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, a fresh salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Taquito Rolls offer a satisfying crunch and a flavorful filling that makes them irresistible to both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving them as a party snack or a casual dinner, their crispy texture and gooey center make them a reliable crowd-pleaser. Customize with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the versatility of this quick, delicious dish.