Baked Ground Beef Taquitos with Flavorful Rice: A Family Favorite Recipe

If you're craving a delicious, easy-to-make meal that satisfies the whole family, look no further than these crispy Baked Ground Beef Taquitos with Rice. 

These taquitos are packed with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and wrapped in a crunchy golden tortilla—baked instead of fried for a lighter, healthier touch. Served with a side of flavorful Mexican-style rice, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prep.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy the crispiness without the excess oil.

• Easy & Quick: Ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

• Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store for an easy grab-and-go meal.

• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

For the Baked Taquitos:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 cup diced onions

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup salsa

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

• 12 small corn tortillas

• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the Mexican-Style Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)

• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.

2. Sauté diced onions until soft, about 2 minutes.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

4. Drain excess grease and stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.

5. Mix in salsa and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat.

6. Stir in shredded cheese and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Warm the corn tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds to prevent cracking.

3. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll tightly.

4. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.

5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Mexican Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add diced onions and bell peppers (if using) and sauté until soft.

3. Stir in rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly toasted.

4. Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, then add cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

6. Simmer for 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

7. Fluff with a fork and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Top taquitos with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh chopped cilantro.

• Serve alongside black beans, a fresh salad, or extra cheese.

• Pair with a refreshing drink like agua fresca or horchata.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes! Flour tortillas will work but may not get as crispy as corn tortillas. To ensure crispiness, bake a few extra minutes or lightly brush them with oil.

2. How do I keep my taquitos from unrolling in the oven?

Place them seam-side down on the baking sheet to keep them secure. You can also use toothpicks to hold them in place while baking.

3. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the taquitos, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 3 months and bake straight from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Of course! You can mix in refried beans, black beans, diced jalapeños, or even shredded chicken for variety.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air fry for 5 minutes at 375°F to retain crispiness.

6. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or even shredded chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef.

7. What other side dishes pair well with these taquitos?

Mexican street corn, ferried beans, or a simple side salad with lime dressing complement this meal beautifully.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Ground Beef Iquitos with Rice are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or meal prep, they are sure to be a hit. Best of all, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a homemade Mexican-inspired meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!