El Monterey Taquitos Air Fryer

El Monterey Taquitos Air Fryer

El Monterey Taquitos cook up perfectly crisp, golden, and filled with cheesy, savory flavor in the air fryer—ready in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re snacking solo or feeding a crowd, this method gives you restaurant-style crunch without the grease or mess of deep frying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Without the Oil

The air fryer makes the tortilla shell golden and crisp with no need for deep frying.

Juicy Filling That Stays Intact

Air frying keeps the meat and cheese hot without bursting the taquito shell.

Fast, Easy, and No Thawing Needed

From freezer to plate in less than 10 minutes—just pop them in and go.

Perfect for Snacks, Appetizers, or Game Day Platters

Great on their own or dressed up with dips and toppings.

Ingredients

• 6–12 El Monterey Taquitos (frozen, any variety: chicken, beef, cheese)

Optional Toppings & Dips:

• Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or queso

• Chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, or diced tomatoes

• Hot sauce, jalapeños, or lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Arrange the Taquitos

• Place frozen taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket

• Do not stack or overcrowd—leave space for air to circulate

• Optional: lightly spray with oil for extra crunch

Step 3: Air Fry the Taquitos

• Air fry at 400°F for 7–9 minutes

• Shake or flip the taquitos halfway through (around 4 minutes)

• Taquitos are ready when golden and crispy, with an internal temp of 165°F

Step 4: Cool and Serve

• Let rest for 1–2 minutes before serving—they’ll be hot inside!

• Serve with dips and toppings of your choice

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Shake or Flip for Even Browning

This ensures both sides crisp up without burning one edge.

Use a Light Oil Spray for Extra Crunch

Optional, but helps the tortilla shell get a deep golden color.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Air needs to flow around each taquito—cook in batches if necessary.

Let Cool Slightly Before Biting

The filling gets very hot—1–2 minutes of rest helps avoid burns and bursting.

What to Serve With El Monterey Taquitos

Dipping Sauces

• Salsa or pico de gallo

• Sour cream or crema

• Nacho cheese or queso

• Guacamole or avocado lime sauce

Add-On Toppings

• Shredded lettuce, cheese, or tomatoes

• Jalapeños or pickled onions

• Cilantro and lime wedges

• Drizzle of hot sauce or chipotle mayo

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat

• Air Fryer: 375°F for 3–4 minutes

• Microwave: 30–60 seconds (will soften texture)

Can You Refreeze After Cooking?

Not recommended—store refrigerated and reheat once for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are El Monterey Taquitos Fully Cooked?

Yes—they’re pre-cooked and just need to be reheated to 165°F internally.

Do I Need to Thaw Them First?

No—cook them straight from frozen.

Can I Cook a Large Batch at Once?

Yes, if you have a large-capacity air fryer. Keep them in a single layer for best results.

Do They Get Crunchy Without Oil?

Yes—but a light spray of oil enhances the texture and color.

El Monterey taquitos air fryer method: crispy, golden perfection in under 10 minutes—no oil, no thawing, just easy snacks or appetizers ready to dip and devour.