If you’re craving a crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying snack or meal, Bean & Cheese Taquitos are about to become your new kitchen hero. These golden-baked rolls are stuffed with creamy refried beans, melty cheese, and just the right kick of spice, all wrapped up in a perfectly crisped tortilla. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, prepping a party platter, or searching for a family-friendly, vegetarian option that never disappoints, Bean & Cheese Taquitos deliver big flavor with minimal fuss—plus, they’re endlessly customizable and always a hit at the table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Bean & Cheese Taquitos keep things wonderfully simple, relying on a short list of powerhouse ingredients that work together for maximum flavor and the best texture. Each one is essential: from the creamy beans to the punchy spices and that irresistible cheesy pull—here’s what you’ll need and why it matters.
- Refried beans: The creamy, savory base of every taquito, holding everything together and adding plenty of protein.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar & Monterey Jack blend): For that melty, gooey goodness and rich, tangy flavor.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note that makes the filling taste authentically Mexican-inspired.
- Chili powder: Brings a gentle heat and pops of color to the filling—don’t skip it!
- Garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Corn or flour tortillas (small): The perfect wrapping for your filling—go with corn for extra crunch or flour for a softer bite.
- Olive oil spray or vegetable oil (for brushing): Gives your taquitos that signature golden, crispy finish in the oven.
How to Make Bean & Cheese Taquitos
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your taquitos don’t stick and clean-up is a breeze. This helps ensure every Bean & Cheese Taquito bakes up beautifully crisp on the bottom, too.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the refried beans, shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly blended—this mixture is the heart of your Bean & Cheese Taquitos, so make sure the spices are spread throughout.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
To keep your tortillas from cracking when you roll them, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until warm and pliable. Soft tortillas make assembly so much easier and prevent splitting in the oven.
Step 4: Fill and Roll
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the bean and cheese mixture onto the lower third of each tortilla. Roll each one up tightly into a classic taquito shape and place them seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This keeps them from unrolling as they bake and ensures that perfect, compact taquito bite.
Step 5: Oil and Bake
Lightly spray or brush the tops of the rolled taquitos with olive oil or vegetable oil. This is the secret to getting that beautiful golden color and irresistible crunch without deep frying. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until your Bean & Cheese Taquitos are crisp and golden brown.
How to Serve Bean & Cheese Taquitos
Garnishes
Dress up your Bean & Cheese Taquitos with a flurry of fresh garnishes! Try a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, a handful of diced tomatoes, or a dusting of crumbly cotija cheese for extra flavor and color. A squeeze of lime over the top brightens up every bite.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal with classic Mexican sides. A simple side of Mexican rice or zesty corn salad pairs perfectly, while a crisp green salad or sliced avocado adds freshness. Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are must-have dips for dunking each taquito.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate! Stack your Bean & Cheese Taquitos upright in a mason jar for a fun appetizer display, or arrange them in a spiral on a big platter with colorful salsas in the center. For parties, skewer each taquito with a cute pick to make them easy to grab and dip.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Bean & Cheese Taquitos (lucky you!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, staying surprisingly crisp and flavorful for easy snacking or lunches.
Freezing
Bean & Cheese Taquitos are freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep. Arrange unbaked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When a craving strikes, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time for a fresh-from-the-oven crunch.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat leftover taquitos in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until piping hot and crisp again—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of that signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Absolutely! Both work beautifully in Bean & Cheese Taquitos. Corn tortillas crisp up with more crunch, while flour tortillas bake up a bit softer and chewier—go with your personal favorite or what you have on hand.
What’s the best way to prevent tortillas from cracking?
Warming the tortillas before rolling is key. A quick 20 to 30 seconds in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel makes them pliable and easy to roll without splitting.
Can I add extra fillings to the Bean & Cheese Taquitos?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in a few tablespoons of chopped green chiles, sautéed onions, or even a spoonful of salsa to the filling for extra flavor. Just don’t overfill, or they’ll be harder to roll.
How do I make these vegan?
It’s easy to make vegan Bean & Cheese Taquitos—simply use dairy-free shredded cheese and check that your refried beans are vegan (many canned versions are). Brush with oil as usual and bake until crispy.
Can I cook these in the air fryer?
Yes! Air fryer Bean & Cheese Taquitos come out incredibly crisp. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re ready in a flash and just as delicious as oven-baked.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and fun about making a fresh batch of Bean & Cheese Taquitos—especially when you know how simple and delicious they can be. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking a few for yourself, I hope this recipe brings a little extra joy (and crunch!) to your kitchen. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become a frequent request at your table!
