Name: Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 box José Olé Beef or Chicken Taquitos; Olive oil spray; Shredded lettuce; Sliced olives; Chopped tomatoes; Sour cream; Avocado

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Growing up, weekends were always a mini-celebration at our house, especially when the aroma of hot, crispy Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos filled the air. I remember the excitement of gathering with family and friends, sharing stories and laughter while indulging in these delicious treats. The best part? They’re quick to prepare, making them a perfect option for spontaneous gatherings or even a cozy movie night at home. With the air fryer, I found a way to recreate that crispy texture without the guilt of deep frying. It’s a win-win! Now, let me take you on a flavorful adventure with this recipe that has become a staple in our home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Air Fryer, Chef’s Knife

Why This Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos Is So Good

They’re Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a quick snack, or preparing a casual dinner, Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re versatile enough to be served as appetizers or main courses, making them suitable for any occasion.

Easy to Customize

I love how you can easily personalize these taquitos. From choosing different flavors of fillings to adding your favorite toppings, the possibilities are endless. Want to spice things up? Go for a spicy salsa or jalapeños on top. Prefer a milder option? Just layer on some fresh avocado and shredded lettuce.

Minimal Cleanup

One of my favorite reasons for using the air fryer is the minimal cleanup. Unlike traditional frying methods, you won’t end up with greasy pans and splatters all over your kitchen. Just pop the taquitos in the air fryer, and once they’re golden and crispy, you’re ready to serve with your favorite dips!

Healthier Option

With the air fryer, you can enjoy that crispy texture with far less oil. It’s a healthier alternative to deep-frying while still delivering that satisfying crunch we all crave. Plus, you can skip those extra calories from frying oil while still indulging in your favorite flavors.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and enjoy meal prepping, these frozen taquitos are perfect for making ahead of time. You can freeze them for quick meals or snacks during the week. When hunger strikes, just pop them in the air fryer, and you’re all set!

What to Buy for Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos

When it comes to making Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos, the right ingredients can make all the difference. The key players here are not only the taquitos themselves but also the fresh toppings that elevate the dish. Using quality ingredients ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor, and having a variety of toppings allows everyone to customize their plates to their liking.

1 box José Olé Beef or Chicken Taquitos: These are the star of the dish! Choose your favorite flavor. You can also swap them for the vegetarian-friendly ones.
Olive oil spray: Just a light mist of this magic ingredient helps achieve that crispy texture we all love.
Shredded lettuce: This adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to your plate.
Sliced olives: A perfect topping for those who enjoy a savory bite.
Chopped tomatoes: Freshly chopped tomatoes bring juiciness and a hint of sweetness.
Sour cream: A creamy element that complements the crispiness of the taquitos beautifully.
Avocado: Rich and buttery, avocado is the perfect finishing touch for a delightful bite!

Recipe Steps for Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos

Making Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos is incredibly straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this delicious dish in just a few steps. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees. This is a crucial step to ensure that your taquitos cook evenly and get that crispy exterior.
While the air fryer is heating, open the box of the José Olé taquitos and gently arrange 8 to 10 of them in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re in a single layer and not crowded, as this will allow them to crisp up perfectly.
Once your air fryer is heated, slide the basket in and set a timer for 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook, looking for a golden-brown color that indicates they’re ready.
When the timer goes off, carefully pull the basket out (it will be hot!), and check if they’re perfectly crispy to your liking. If you want them a bit crunchier, feel free to add another minute or two.
After they’re done, transfer the taquitos to a serving plate. Now comes the fun part—adding your favorite toppings! I like to layer on some shredded lettuce, sliced olives, and chopped tomatoes.
Don’t forget to add a generous dollop of sour cream and sliced avocado on top. These toppings add extra flavor and texture, making every bite delightful!
Finally, serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, homemade Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos. They’re perfect for sharing, but I won’t blame you if you want to keep them all to yourself!

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Matters: Always preheat your air fryer. This helps achieve that crispy texture you desire.
Single Layer: When placing the taquitos in the air fryer, ensure they’re not stacked. A single layer allows for even cooking.
Check Early: Air fryers vary in performance. It’s a good idea to check on your taquitos a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.
Serve Fresh: These taquitos are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer. If you need to keep them warm, place them in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Now that you know how to make Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos, here are some pro tips and tweaks to elevate your dish even further!

Storage: Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a quick snack.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked taquitos for a future treat. Just ensure they’re fully cooled before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
Pairing: Serve with fresh salsa or guacamole for a delicious dip option.
Creative Fillings: Experiment with different fillings like cheese or beans for a vegetarian twist.
Spice it Up: Add some chopped jalapeños to your toppings for an extra kick!

Side Dish Ideas for Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos

When serving Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos, consider these complementary side dishes and ideas:

Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the taquitos.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans can add richness and balance to your meal.
Fresh Salad: A light salad with a citrus dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy taquitos.
Guacamole: Homemade guacamole is always a hit and adds a creamy texture to the dish.
Corn on the Cob: Perfect for summer gatherings, corn on the cob can complement the taquitos nicely.
Salsa: Serve with a variety of salsas—pico de gallo, mango salsa, or even a spicy verde sauce!
Tacos: For a fun twist, make mini tacos alongside your taquitos for variety.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can use homemade taquitos instead of store-bought ones. Just ensure they’re frozen before placing them in the air fryer. The cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on them for that perfect crisp!

I love serving Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos with a variety of dipping sauces. Some favorites include guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. For a twist, try a spicy chipotle sauce for an extra kick!

It depends on the type of taquitos you use. If you choose a brand that offers gluten-free options, then yes! Just check the packaging carefully for gluten-free labeling.

For frozen taquitos, you should cook them at 400 degrees for about 5 to 7 minutes. Always check for a golden-brown color and adjust the time if necessary, as air fryer models vary.

Conclusion

In summary, Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos deliver a delightful crunch and flavor that’s hard to resist. These tasty bites are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game night or a simple family dinner. So go ahead, give this recipe a try tonight, and enjoy a fun and delicious meal that everyone will love!