Beef and Cheese Taquitos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: ~460 per serving (3 taquitos + crema)

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Beef Taquitos

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ cup salsa or tomato sauce

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or pepper jack)

• 12 small flour or corn tortillas

• Cooking spray or oil for brushing

Cilantro Lime Crema

• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tsp lime zest

• 2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro

• 1 garlic clove, grated

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Beef Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

4. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

5. Add salsa (or tomato sauce) and simmer 2 minutes until thickened.

6. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese.

2. Assemble the Taquitos

1. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 20–25 seconds to prevent tearing.

2. Add 2–3 tbsp of the beef mixture to each tortilla.

3. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.

4. Brush lightly with oil or spray with cooking spray.

3. Bake or Air-Fry

Bake:

• Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes until crispy and golden.

Air-Fry:

• Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Make the Cilantro Lime Crema

1. Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, zest, cilantro, and garlic.

2. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Chill until serving.