These cheesy potato taquitos are everything you could want—crispy on the outside, warm and cheesy on the inside! They’re the perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese, all rolled up in tortillas and fried (or baked) to golden perfection. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these taquitos will quickly become a favorite. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings or dips!
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Why These Cheesy Potato Taquitos
- Crispy and Cheesy: The crunchy shell and gooey cheese filling make each bite heavenly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a party appetizer, snack, or even a light dinner.
- Easy to Customize: Add spices, bacon, or veggies to the filling for extra flavor.
- Fried or Baked: Make them the way you like—either golden-fried or healthier in the oven.
- Freezer-Friendly: Prep them in advance and freeze for quick Snacks anytime!
Ingredients
- 2 cups (450g / 1 lb) mashed potatoes (leftovers work great!)
- 1 ½ cups (165g / 0.36 lb) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 small tortillas (flour or corn)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (or olive oil spray for baking)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro
Directions
- Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. - Assemble the Taquitos:
Lay a tortilla flat and spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the potato mixture along one edge. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. - Fry the Taquitos (Optional):
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the taquitos, seam-side down, for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. - Bake the Taquitos (Optional):
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet and spray with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden. - Serve:
Top with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro, and enjoy!
Notes
- Leftover Hack: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes.
- Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack or mozzarella for a different twist.
- Add-Ins: Mix in crumbled bacon, green onions, or roasted veggies to the filling for extra flavor.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
frequently asked questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the taquitos and store them in the fridge until ready to fry or bake.
Can I freeze these taquitos?
Absolutely! Place uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag, and when you’re ready to eat, bake or fry directly from frozen.
Do I need to use flour tortillas, or can I use corn?
Both work! Corn tortillas give a more traditional feel, but flour tortillas roll more easily and stay soft inside.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
The best way is to reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based mashed potatoes for a vegan version.
Tips and Notes
- My Tip: If you’re using corn tortillas, warm them briefly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—fry the taquitos in batches to keep the oil temperature stable.
- Serving Suggestion: These taquitos pair perfectly with fresh guacamole and a side of pico de gallo for dipping.
Variations
There are endless ways to switch up these taquitos! Try one of these fun twists next time:
- Buffalo Potato Taquitos: Mix in some buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
- Chili Cheese Taquitos: Add a scoop of your favorite chili into the potato filling and top with extra cheese.
- Sweet Potato Taquitos: Swap mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes and sprinkle in some cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Breakfast Taquitos: Add scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese to the mashed potatoes for a breakfast-friendly version.
- Taco-Inspired Taquitos: Mix in taco seasoning and ground beef for a heartier version.
