Baked Bean and Cheese Taquitos

Baked Bean and Cheese Taquitos are a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying vegetarian twist on a Mexican-inspired classic. Filled with creamy refried beans, gooey cheese, and a touch of spice, these oven-baked taquitos are lighter than the fried version but just as delicious. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or easy weeknight dinner, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Oven-baked for a healthier alternative to frying
• Quick and easy to prepare with pantry staples
• Vegetarian-friendly and customizable with your favorite fillings
• Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside
• Great for meal prep, parties, or game-day snacking
• Pairs well with fresh toppings and dips

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (15 oz) can refried beans
1 ½–2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or pepper jack)
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 teaspoons taco seasoning
2 teaspoons hot sauce
½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
14 (6-inch) flour or corn tortillas
Cooking spray or avocado oil

Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, diced tomatoes, lime wedges, fresh cilantro

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with foil and lightly coat with nonstick spray. For extra crispiness, place a wire rack over the baking sheet and spray it as well.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine refried beans, shredded cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, hot sauce, and salt. Stir until well blended.
3. If using flour tortillas, warm them slightly in the microwave to make rolling easier. For corn tortillas, wrap a few at a time in damp paper towels and microwave about 20 seconds until pliable.
4. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling along the lower third of each tortilla, leaving about 1 inch from the edges. Roll tightly and place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Lightly brush or spray the tops of the rolled tortillas with avocado oil or cooking spray. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
6. Bake for 10–15 minutes, until crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as the edges crisp quickly.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings and dips.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 14 taquitos
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein-Packed: Add shredded chicken, ground beef, or pulled pork to the filling.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra hot sauce.
• Vegan-Friendly: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan sour cream.
• Breakfast Taquitos: Swap beans for scrambled eggs and add breakfast sausage or bacon.
• Loaded Style: Top baked taquitos with queso, salsa, and guacamole for a taquito platter.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze unbaked taquitos on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
• Reheat: Warm baked taquitos in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready.

Are flour or corn tortillas better?

Both work! Flour tortillas roll more easily, while corn tortillas give an authentic flavor and crispness.

How do I keep corn tortillas from breaking?

Microwave them wrapped in damp paper towels to soften before rolling.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, fry in about ½ inch of oil over medium heat until golden brown and crispy.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, just use certified gluten-free corn tortillas.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed onions, peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Use a wire rack when baking so heat circulates evenly, and spray the tops with oil.

What dips go best with these?

Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or queso all pair perfectly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe easily scales up for parties or meal prep.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, just reduce or omit the hot sauce for a milder version.

Conclusion

Baked Bean and Cheese Taquitos are a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main meal, they’re a healthier take on a comfort food classic that everyone will love.

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