Crispy Baked Cheese & Pepper Taquitos (Print Version)
Crispy baked taquitos filled with melted cheese and vibrant peppers. A healthier, satisfying snack or light meal ready in under 30 minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 18 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mexican
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Golden Tortilla Wraps
01 -
12 (6-inch) corn tortillas
02 -
2 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/4 tsp salt
→ Savory Cheese & Pepper Core
04 -
1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
05 -
1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
06 -
1/2 cup finely diced green bell pepper
07 -
1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (about 2 tbsp)
08 -
1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
11 -
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
→ Aromatic Spice Blend
12 -
1 tsp ground cumin
13 -
1/2 tsp chili powder
14 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
15 -
Salt to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup finely diced green bell pepper, 1 small jalapeño (seeded and minced), 1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
02 -
Add 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the cheese and vegetable mixture. Season with salt to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring a flavorful core for your Crispy Baked Cheese & Pepper Taquitos.
03 -
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lightly brush 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas with 2 tbsp olive oil on both sides, then sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt.
04 -
Arrange the oiled tortillas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 minutes, just until they are warm and pliable. This step is essential to prevent cracking when rolling your Crispy Baked Cheese & Pepper Taquitos.
05 -
Remove tortillas from the oven. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese and pepper filling in a line near one edge of each warm tortilla. Tightly roll each tortilla into a taquito shape and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
06 -
Bake the assembled taquitos for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. For the best Crispy Baked Cheese & Pepper Taquitos, flip them halfway through baking to ensure even crispness on all sides.
07 -
Carefully remove the taquitos from the oven. Let them cool for a minute or two before serving. These are best enjoyed hot, perhaps with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the rolled taquitos with cooking spray before baking.
02 -
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or a Mexican blend. For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
03 -
These taquitos are fantastic with a side of fresh pico de gallo, a dollop of Greek yogurt (as a healthier sour cream alternative), or a creamy avocado dip.
04 -
Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best results to regain crispness.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Baking sheet
02 -
Parchment paper
03 -
Mixing bowl
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Knife
06 -
Grater (if using block cheese)
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 430 kcal
Total Fat: 23 g
Total Carbohydrate: 46 g
Protein: 14 g