Tacos Dorados (aka Taquitos): Crispy, Golden, and Seriously Good

Sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the ones that don’t try too hard. Tacos dorados—also called taquitos in some parts of the U.S.—are just that. Rolled-up tortillas stuffed with something delicious, pan-fried (or deep-fried) until golden, and topped with all the good stuff. You know… shredded lettuce, Mexican crema, crumbled queso, salsa, maybe a little guac if you’re going all in.

They’re crunchy, comforting, and easy to customize. And best of all? They work whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy dinner for one.

Let’s get into it.

🕒 Time & Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: ~30 minutes
• Serves: 4 (makes 10–12 tacos)

📝 Ingredients

For the Tacos:

• 10–12 small corn tortillas (slightly warmed so they’re pliable)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken or mashed potatoes (or a mix)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying (vegetable or avocado oil)

Toppings:

• Shredded lettuce
• Mexican crema or sour cream
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Queso fresco or cotija cheese
• Avocado slices or guacamole
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the filling:
   In a bowl, mix the chicken or mashed potatoes with the cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Keep it simple—you want the crispy shell and toppings to shine too.
2. Warm the tortillas:
   Briefly warm the tortillas on a skillet or in the microwave (covered with a damp towel) to make them soft enough to roll without cracking.
3. Roll the tacos:
   Place 2 tablespoons of filling onto one edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down. You can secure them with a toothpick if needed.
4. Fry until golden:
   In a skillet, heat 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat. Fry 3–4 tacos at a time, seam-side down, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crispy (about 2–3 minutes per side). Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Top and serve:
   Arrange tacos on a plate. Add shredded lettuce, crema, salsa, cheese, and whatever toppings you like. Eat immediately while they’re hot and crunchy.

📌 Recipe Notes

• Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up better to frying than flour. If they crack, don’t worry—they’ll still taste good.
• Potato filling makes a great vegetarian version. You can also try beans, shredded beef, or even jackfruit.
• Don’t overload the filling—it can make the tacos hard to roll or cause them to burst while frying.
• Toothpicks help keep them from unrolling, especially if you’re working with stiffer tortillas.

🥡 Storage Tips

Best fresh—but if you’ve got leftovers, don’t toss them. Store the tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F to bring back the crisp.

Toppings should be stored separately to keep the tacos from getting soggy.

Not freezer-friendly, unfortunately. The texture just doesn’t survive well after thawing.

🔍 Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving — approx. 3 tacos)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbs: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 520mg

(Varies depending on the filling and toppings—this one’s based on shredded chicken + cheese.)

💡 Extra Tips to Make Them Just Right

• Warm the tortillas well—they’re less likely to crack and easier to roll.
• Use a shallow pan with enough oil to get an even fry, but not so much that you’re deep-frying unless you really want to.
• Want to make them lighter? Try baking them with a light oil spray or using an air fryer. They won’t be as crispy but still good.
• Prepping for a party? You can roll them ahead of time and fry just before serving.

🍽️ How to Serve

Tacos dorados are super versatile. Serve them on a platter with toppings on the side for a build-your-own vibe, or dress them up restaurant-style. Pair with:

• Mexican rice
• Refried beans
• Pickled jalapeños
• Fresh lime wedges

They also work well as appetizers or game day snacks—just cut them in half and serve with dipping sauces.

🔧 Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Mixing bowls
• Toothpicks (optional but helpful)
• Cutting board and knife

❓ FAQs About Tacos Dorados