Air Fryer Hack: Frozen Taquitos, Quick And Crispy!

Frozen taquitos are a quick and easy snack, appetiser, or meal that can be cooked in an air fryer. They are simple to prepare and can be made in just a few minutes, making them a convenient option for those who are short on time or energy. The air fryer produces a crispy, crunchy texture that is often preferred over other cooking methods such as microwaving or oven-baking. The convenience of air-fried frozen taquitos, combined with their delicious taste and texture, makes them a popular choice for individuals, families, and gatherings.

Cooking times for corn and flour tortillas

Frozen taquitos are a quick, easy, and delicious snack or meal that can be made in an air fryer. They can be made with corn or flour tortillas and a variety of fillings, such as beef and cheese, or chicken and cheese. The cooking time for frozen taquitos in an air fryer will depend on the type of tortilla used and the desired level of doneness.

For corn tortillas, the initial cooking time is 5 minutes. Check the taquitos after the first 5 minutes, then again after 7 minutes, and finally after 9 minutes. Corn tortilla taquitos should be ready in no more than 9 minutes, but the exact cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer used.

For flour tortillas, the initial cooking time is 8 minutes. Check the taquitos after the first 8 minutes, then again after 10 minutes, and finally after 12 minutes. Flour tortilla taquitos should be ready in no more than 12 minutes, but again, the exact cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer.

It is important to note that these cooking times are just guidelines, and the actual cooking time may vary depending on the brand and style of the air fryer, as well as the brand of frozen taquitos being used. For best results, it may be necessary to adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly.

To make frozen taquitos in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350° Fahrenheit. Once the air fryer is preheated, remove the basket and lightly spray it with cooking spray if desired. Place the frozen taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Air fry the taquitos at 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Carefully remove the taquitos from the basket and serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, cheese, or guacamole.

Pre-heating the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It helps to achieve even cooking and a crispy texture for your frozen taquitos. While some air fryers do not have a preheat setting, you can still open the basket and estimate its temperature or use an oven-safe thermometer for a more precise reading.

To preheat your air fryer, simply turn it on and set the temperature to your desired level, usually between 350-400°F (175-200°C) for frozen foods. Allow it to heat up for around 3-5 minutes before adding your frozen taquitos. This step is especially important if you are cooking breaded or wrapped frozen foods, as it helps to quickly evaporate any water that may be released during the cooking process, preventing sogginess.

Additionally, preheating your air fryer can lead to better overall results. It gets the internal temperature up to the proper cooking temperature, ensuring your food cooks evenly and efficiently. This is particularly beneficial for busy weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. By preheating your air fryer, you can also take advantage of its quick cooking times, which are faster than traditional cooking methods.

Remember, each air fryer is unique, so you may need to adjust the temperature and timing based on your specific model. The first time you make taquitos, monitor and check on them a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to ensure they don't overcook. Then, make any necessary adjustments for future batches.

Oil and cooking spray

When cooking frozen taquitos in an air fryer, you don't need to use oil or cooking spray. In fact, one source says that most frozen foods already contain oil, so you don't need to add any extra when air frying. However, some manufacturers do suggest using a little oil, so it's up to you. If you want to take the crunch of your taquitos to the next level, you can spray them with a little oil before cooking.

If you want to use cooking spray, you can prepare the air fryer basket with a light coating of it. You can also spray the tops of the taquitos with cooking spray for extra crispiness.

It's important to note that if you're using oil or cooking spray, you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the appropriate safety precautions. Make sure the air fryer is well-ventilated and never leave it unattended while cooking.

Some people prefer to cook their frozen taquitos without any oil or cooking spray. This is because air frying already produces crispy results without the need for additional oil. Adding oil might not be necessary and could make the taquitos too greasy.

Ultimately, whether or not to use oil or cooking spray when making frozen taquitos in an air fryer is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different methods and see which one you prefer.

Toppings and dips

Frozen taquitos are a quick, easy, and delicious snack that can be made in an air fryer. They are a great option for those who want something simple and convenient without compromising on taste and texture. The air fryer gives the taquitos a crispy, crunchy texture without the need for deep frying or using large amounts of oil.

While taquitos can be enjoyed on their own, toppings and dips can enhance their flavour and make them even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas for toppings and dips to elevate your frozen taquitos:

Toppings:

• Shredded lettuce adds a fresh and crunchy texture to the taquitos.
• Green chilies or jalapeños bring a spicy kick to the dish.
• Salsa, including salsa verde, adds a zesty and vibrant flavour.
• Sour cream provides a cool and creamy contrast to the spicy and crispy taquitos.
• Cheese, such as shredded Mexican blend cheddar, melted Mexican mix, or sharp cheddar, adds a gooey and flavourful touch.
• Guacamole contributes a creamy and savoury element to the taquitos.
• Green onions and cilantro bring freshness and a pop of colour.
• Sliced tomatoes add a juicy and vibrant touch.
• Avocados, either sliced or mashed into a dip or spread, offer a creamy and healthy option.

Dips:

• Cheese sauce, especially a homemade one with cheddar cheese, almond milk, jalapeños, and chili powder, is a delicious and indulgent option.
• Sour cream, either on its own or mixed with mayo, lime juice, and cilantro, creates a creamy and tangy dip.
• Salsa or hot sauce, especially a burn-your-face-off variety, adds a spicy kick to the taquitos.
• Guacamole, with its creamy texture and avocado flavour, is a perfect match for the crispy taquitos.
• Pico de Gallo is a fresh and vibrant choice.
• Birria Sauce and Queso are also mentioned as potential dips.

Reheating leftover taquitos

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Start by preheating your air fryer to the desired temperature. The recommended temperatures range from 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and prevents your taquitos from burning or drying out.

Prepare the Leftover Taquitos:

Place the leftover taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid stacking or overcrowding the basket, as this can affect the crispiness and even cooking. If you need to reheat a large quantity, consider working in batches.

Reheating Time:

The reheating time for leftover taquitos can vary depending on the type of taquitos and your desired level of doneness. For corn taquitos, check after the first 5 minutes, then again after 7 and 9 total minutes. They should be ready within 9 minutes. For flour taquitos, check after the first 8 minutes, then again after 10 and 12 total minutes. Flour taquitos should be ready within 12 minutes. Adjust the timing as needed based on your air fryer's performance and your preferences.

Serving Suggestions:

Leftover taquitos can be served with a variety of dips and sides. Popular choices include guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or green onions. Get creative with your serving ideas and toppings to enhance the flavor profile and make it a delightful culinary experience.

Important Considerations:

It is recommended to avoid reheating taquitos multiple times in the air fryer, as it can lead to a loss of flavor and texture. Reheating food multiple times can also raise food safety concerns. Always inspect your leftover taquitos for any signs of spoilage, especially if they have been stored for several days. Properly wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain their quality.

Frequently asked questions