Ah, Shredded Beef Taquitos! Just saying the name sends me back to lazy Sunday afternoons spent gathered around the table with friends and family. There’s something magical about these crispy, savory rolls that just makes any gathering feel like a celebration. I first had taquitos at a friend’s birthday party, and I remember thinking, “Why don’t I eat these every day?” The crispy shells paired with that flavorful, tender beef filling are simply irresistible. Plus, they are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s game day or just a cozy night in.
What I love most? They’re incredibly versatile! You can fill them with anything you like, but I’m convinced that shredded beef is where it’s at. It’s comforting, satisfying, and downright delicious when paired with your favorite dipping sauce. So, let’s get those taste buds tingling and dive into making some of these taquitos!
What’s in Shredded Beef Taquitos?
Chuck Roast: This cut of beef is perfect for shredding once it’s slow-cooked to tender perfection. It has just the right amount of fat to keep it juicy without being overly greasy.
Spices: A mix of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika amps up the flavor of the beef. Feel free to adjust these spices based on how bold you want your taquitos to taste!
Onion: Adding a chopped onion into the slow cooker with your beef brings a lovely sweetness and layer of flavor to the dish.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are my go-to for taquitos – they get beautifully crispy and hold everything together marvelously. I prefer using the thicker ones, as they hold up better when frying.
Cheese: Shredded cheese is optional, but sprinkling some inside the taquito before rolling adds a delightfully gooey surprise when you take a bite.
Oil: You’ll need some for frying. I typically use vegetable oil, as it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Is Shredded Beef Taquitos Good for You?
Well, let’s take a look at the bright side!
Chuck Roast: This beef is an excellent source of protein which helps with muscle growth and repair. It also contains essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
Sweet Onions: Besides adding flavor, they provide vitamin C and antioxidants that can boost your immune system.
Now for the balance – while these taquitos are deliciously satisfying, they are fried, which means they should be enjoyed in moderation. Opting for a healthier cooking method, like baking, can be a great alternative if you want to lighten things up!
Ingredients
– 2 lbs chuck roast (serves 4-6)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
How to Make Shredded Beef Taquitos?
1. Start by placing the chuck roast in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, spices, and a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Pour in just enough water to cover the roast (about 1 cup). Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
3. Once cooked, shred the beef using two forks right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the juices to keep it moist.
4. In a frying pan, heat about half an inch of oil over medium heat.
5. While it’s heating, warm the corn tortillas briefly in a dry pan or microwave to make them pliable.
6. Spoon a bit of the shredded beef into each tortilla, sprinkle some shredded cheese if you’re using it, and roll them up tightly.
7. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the oil. Fry until they’re golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Remove the taquitos and let them drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil.
How to Make Your Taquitos a Hit!
– **Make them saucy:** Serve with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream to add a refreshing touch.
– **Bake instead of fry:** For a lighter version, bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or until crispy.
– **Spice it up:** Experiment with different spices and fillings – shredded chicken or even vegetarian options can be delightful!
I truly hope you dive into making these Shredded Beef Taquitos! They hold a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait for you to experience that happiness too. Don’t forget to tweak the recipe to your liking – the kitchen is all about creativity! I’d love to hear how yours turn out! Happy cooking!
