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Have a crispy snack in 10 minutes when you cook frozen taquitos in air fryer! Get tips and cooking times for two major brands and how they compare to homemade.
Cooking frozen taquitos in the air fryer is an easy, quick way to make them perfectly crunchy! Luckily, I’ve done all the experimenting for you, so you can learn from my mistakes. With this method, you will get the perfect level of crispness and not a single soggy spot! I tested with Jose Ole and Delimex brands as well as my favorite homemade chicken taquito recipe. You’re going to make the best taquitos ever on your very first try!
Want more frozen favorites in the air fryer? Try this easy fish taco recipe, air fryer fish and chips, or this meatball sub recipe!
Air Fryer Taquito Ingredients
- Frozen Taquitos – I tested with both Jose Ole and Delimex frozen taquitos (beef with corn tortillas), but you can use your favorite brand and type.
- Optional: Spray oil – If you want maximum crispiness, a spritz of oil will make these perfect.
How to Air Fry Frozen Taquitos
This could not be any more simple; all you need is an air fryer.
- Preheat the air fryer. I know the manual says you can skip this, but just 3 minutes really does give you a more even, reliable cook.
- Cook taquitos. Spray the basket/rack with oil, then place taquitos inside. Keep them in a single layer with a little space between each for better texture. Spray with oil if you want them extra crispy, then cook 4-6 minutes.
What to serve with taquitos
We like these best with this copycat Taco Bell creamy jalapeno sauce (it’s what makes their chicken quesadilla so good!) or an herby jalapeno ranch dressing. Add a side of Mexican Street Corn Salad or Black Bean Tostadas if you’re extra hungry.
Storage and Reheating
These are best fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days. I do not recommend freezing as they can get quite tough. To reheat, microwave for 30 seconds to warm the inside, then air fry for 1 minute at 380 degrees F to crisp up.
Crispy Frozen Taquitos FAQs
Yes! If your homemade taquitos are frozen, cook as directed. If your taquitos are fresh and room temperature, cook at 390 for 3-5 minutes instead for the best texture.
Air fry frozen taquitos for 4-6 minutes. I recommend 4 minutes for Jose Ole (the filling bursts after much longer) and up to 6 for Delimex (they’re sturdier and can get crispier without losing filling).
If you prefer a softer bite, the air fryer can still work for you! To cook them without making them super crispy, leave out the spray oil and open the basket every 60 seconds to shake. This lowers the temperature a bit, prevents any side from being on the hot metal for too long, and gives you a softer taquito.
Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- Air Fry Tater Tots
- Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli
- Frozen Egg Rolls in Air Fryer
- Hot Dog Air Fryer
- Pizza Rolls in Air Fryer
Check here for all of my Air Fryer Recipes!
How to Air Fry Frozen Taquitos
Equipment
Ingredients
- Frozen or homemade taquitos, link to homemade taquito recipe in notes
Instructions
- Allow air fryer to preheat for 3 minutes. If using frozen taquitos, preheat to 370 degrees F; if using homemade taquitos, preheat to 390 degrees F.
- Cook taquitos 4-6 minutes. Homemade taquitos will be finished quicker than frozen.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Hi, I’m Maggie! After obtaining a Master of Education degree in 2020, I decided to combine my love of teaching with my passion for food. Cooking good food feeds our bodies and souls, but it also helps give us a confidence that empowers us far beyond the kitchen. I hope to share my knowledge and experience to help cooks of all levels create delicious meals, snacks, and desserts for everyone they love!
